Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment that is being used to improve the healing of wounds by exposing the body to higher levels of oxygen. Wounds need higher levels of oxygen to heal efficiently, and exposing the body to 100% pure oxygen may speed up the rate of healing.
For some, healing can be slow or impaired due to factors such as poor circulation, diabetes, or chronic conditions. This is where HBOT is beneficial, improving the healing process for chronic and non-healing wounds. In this blog, we will explore how HBOT works, its benefits, and its role in supporting wound healing.
What is HBOT?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, also known as HBOT, is a form of medical treatment that involves breathing in 100% pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. The pressure levels once entering the chamber are 1.5 to 3 times higher than the average oxygen levels. This allows oxygen to enter the bloodstream at higher levels which enhances oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.
HBOT typically takes place in a specialised chamber, either a monoplane chamber for one patient or a multi-place chamber for multiple patients. A typical HBOT therapy session will last for 60 to 90 minutes, and depending on your condition, you may require multiple sessions per week.
How Does HBOT Support Wound Healing?
Wound healing requires a sufficient amount of oxygen supplied to the affected area of the body. HBOT can support wound healing in several ways with its ability to increase the amount of oxygen being delivered to tissues.
HBOT can support wound healing in the following ways:
Enhanced Oxygen Delivery
HBOT increases the level of oxygen delivery to the body by providing higher oxygen levels than the normal air pressure. The higher levels of oxygen can stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and also support the function of already existing blood vessels. This is beneficial for the affected wound by receiving more oxygen to facilitate healing.
Improved Collagen Production
Collagen is an essential protein that is required to provide support and structure to the skin and tissues. Oxygen is required for collagen synthesis, and HBOT has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen at the wound site. This helps speed up the formation of new tissue and improve the strength of the healed area.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural part of the healing process but when it occurs it can hurt wound healing. The reduction of inflammation means that HBOT can help accelerate tissue repair and lower the risk of any further complications such as infection of the wound.
Wounds HBOT Can Treat
1. Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetic foot ulcers are a common and often severe complication of diabetes that often appear due to poor circulation and nerve damage. These ulcers can sometimes be challenging to treat and can lead to serious infections if not managed properly. HBOT increases the level of oxygen being delivered to the affected area, providing faster and more efficient healing.
What does the science say? – A study from 2008 found that 66% of diabetic foot ulcers were healed with HBOT – compared to 0 in the standard therapy group.
2. Pressure Ulcers
Pressure ulcers are a common condition for most individuals and hurt those who have limited mobility. This type of ulcer forms due to prolonged pressure on the skin, leading to poor circulation and tissue damage. HBOT enhances oxygen delivery, supports tissue repair, and helps prevent infections, making it an essential treatment for people with pressure ulcers.
What does the science say? – Studies on chronic wounds, including pressure ulcers found that HBOT improved wound healing. HBOT helped to reduce the size of the ulcers and promote tissue repair.
3. Thermal Burns
A thermal burn is caused by external heat damaging the skin, which can lead to significant tissue damage. HBOT is thought to help to repair damaged tissues and reduce the appearance of scars. It promotes tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and enhances the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of HBOT for thermal burns.
The Benefits of HBOT for Wound Healing
Delivering 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure allows HBOT to enhance the body's natural healing processes, making it highly effective for chronic and non-healing wounds. Below are some of the key benefits of HBOT for wound healing.
Increased Oxygen Delivery
The increase in oxygen concentration within the blood and tissues promotes cellular function, enhances the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and accelerates tissue repair, which is essential for wound healing.
Reduced Inflammation and Swelling
HBOT reduces the level of inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the release of anti-inflammatory drugs. This helps to reduce swelling around wounds, creating an environment perfect for faster wound healing and decreased discomfort.
Enhanced White Blood Cell Function
A well-functioning immune system is very important for fighting infections in wounds. HBOT enhances the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria and remove any dead tissue, reducing the risk of infections in chronic wounds.
Is HBOT Safe for Wound Healing?
Yes! HBOT is a generally safe form of treatment for treating various conditions and treating chronic wounds – especially when performed by a professional healthcare provider. While HBOT is safe for most patients, it is not without risks. Here are some of the potential risks:
- Ear barotrauma
- Temporary vision changes
- Oxygen toxicity
- Lung infections
Even though there are potential risks that come with HBOT, it is generally performed in a medical setting, minimising complications and ensuring the safety of all patients.
Purchasing a Hyperbaric Chamber with Optimal Health
If you are looking for a way to improve your natural healing process and address chronic wounds, a hyperbaric chamber may be the perfect solution – buying a hyperbaric chamber can change your life!
At Optimal Health, our hyperbaric chambers are designed with the latest advanced technology and science. You can always rely on our hyperbaric chambers to enhance your recovery and seek exceptional results. Take a look at our exceptional steel hyperbaric chamber available for purchase today!
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