Article reviewed by: Dr. Sturz Ciprian, Dr. Tîlvescu Cătălin and Dr. Alina Vasile
- What does hyperbaric mean?
- How does hyperbaric therapy work?
- How will you feel in the hyperbaric chamber?
- How do I stay in the hyperbaric chamber?
- How much does hyperbaric therapy cost?
- Is hyperbaric therapy dangerous?
- How should you prepare for a hyperbaric treatment session?
- Can I bring my phone into the hyperbaric chamber?
- Can I shower before a hyperbaric therapy session?
- How will I feel during therapy?
- How will I feel after therapy?
- Why do I feel slightly tired after a hyperbaric treatment?
- Does hyperbaric therapy make you feel more energetic?
- Is it normal to feel a little dizzy after HBOT?
- What is the minimum age for hyperbaric treatment?
- Can I fly by plane after hyperbaric treatment?
- HBOT before or after a sports workout?
- Can I attend a hyperbaric therapy session if I have a cold?
- What can I do in the hyperbaric chamber?
- Can I communicate with medical staff during therapy?
- Can I leave the hyperbaric chamber during therapy?
- What if I'm claustrophobic?
- What are the contraindications of hyperbaric therapy?
- How long does a hyperbaric therapy session last?
- How many sessions do I need?
- Do I need someone to accompany me to treatment?
- Does hyperbaric oxygen therapy have side effects?
- Is hyperbaric therapy cleared by CAS?
- What training does the medical team have?
- What are the technical facilities of the Hyperbarium clinic?
What does hyperbaric mean?
The word "hyperbaric" refers to a pressure greater than normal atmospheric pressure at sea level. In the medical context, hyperbaric therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a specially designed chamber or capsule, called a hyperbaric chamber, where the pressure of air is increased in a controlled manner, above the normal level, according to a treatment scheme indicated by the specialist doctor. This process helps increase the amount of dissolved oxygen in the blood, which speeds tissue healing and helps treat certain medical conditions.
How does hyperbaric therapy work?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an accredited medical treatment, which consists of inhaling pure oxygen (100%), in a barochamber at a pressure higher than atmospheric. Therefore, the oxygen level in the body/plasma will increase up to 20 times, being diffused much more easily into the oxygen deprived tissues. The body needs oxygen to function and repair itself, but many times tissue oxygenation can decrease due to injury, medical conditions, or the aging process. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly improves and accelerates the body's ability to heal itself naturally.
How will you feel in the hyperbaric chamber?
Many people wonder if hyperbaric oxygen treatment is painful or if there is any pain associated with this therapy. In reality, the sensation felt in the hyperbaric chamber is more like what you would feel in an airplane. You can also feel a slight change in the temperature in the room; it may become slightly warmer as the chamber is pressurized and slightly cooler during depressurization at the end of the treatment.
How do I stay in the hyperbaric chamber?
The hyperbaric chamber in the Hyperbarium clinic is equipped with comfortable armchairs for 16 patients simultaneously, but for patients with special needs or who are immobilized in bed, there is also the possibility of lying on a medical stretcher with an adjustable backrest.
How much does hyperbaric therapy cost?
In Romania, the price of a therapy session in HBOT rooms (medical devices) usually varies between 400 and 500 RON. Although the price of a session in mHBOT capsules (non-medical) may be lower, it is important to state that these capsules cannot be used for therapeutic purposes. See the differences between the two types of chambers HERE.
Is hyperbaric therapy dangerous?
Hyperbaric therapy is considered very safe and effective when administered correctly and under the proper supervision of qualified medical personnel. It is important that patients undergo a complete medical evaluation and receive detailed instructions before starting hyperbaric therapy. Also, the therapy must be administered by well-trained medical personnel and in a controlled environment.
How should you prepare for a hyperbaric treatment session?
- Clothing: inside the hyperbaric chamber, only 100% cotton clothing is accepted, without belts, jewelry or other accessories, and pockets must be completely emptied before entering the chamber.
- Shoes: it is forbidden to wear shoes containing metal accessories, fur, shoes made entirely of plastic or shoes with air cushions.
- Hair: must be secured with non-plastic clips, no hair clips, bobby pins, wigs and braids. Also, the hair must not contain wax, fixative, permanent solution in the last 7 days or other hair care products.
- Body/Face: no make-up, perfume, creams, sprays, lotions or aftershave, ointments, oils.
- Nails: These must not be recently painted.
These recommendations are intended to optimize treatment effectiveness and minimize risks. Pure cotton clothing is recommended because it is safe and does not generate sparks or chemical reactions in the high oxygen and pressure conditions of the hyperbaric chamber. And avoiding petroleum-based products is very important, as they can be flammable in an oxygen-rich environment.
Strict compliance with the above recommendations allows hyperbaric therapy sessions to be carried out in complete safety and with maximum effectiveness for patients.
Can I bring my phone into the hyperbaric chamber?
No, it is not allowed to bring your phone into the hyperbaric chamber. Electronic devices, including cell phones, may present a fire hazard in an oxygen-enriched environment such as a hyperbaric chamber. Access to the room with electronic devices, materials or flammable substances is strictly prohibited. For your safety and the safety of others, it is important to leave your phone and other electronic devices outside the room during treatment. For your convenience, the Hyperbarium clinic offers a locker room equipped with secure lockers, where you can store your personal belongings during treatment.
Can I shower before a hyperbaric therapy session?
Yes, a shower is really recommended before a hyperbaric therapy session. It is important to ensure that the skin is clean and that you have not used products that are not permitted, such as lotions, oils or other petroleum-based products, as these can be flammable in an oxygen-enriched environment.
How will I feel during therapy?
During the compression, you will feel a slight pressure in your ears, similar to the feeling you get when flying in an airplane. To alleviate this discomfort, you can try to open your ears by swallowing, yawning or using the Valsalva maneuver (the technique where you cover your nose and mouth and try to exhale forcefully).
How will I feel after therapy?
Hyperbaric therapy does not in any way limit the performance of normal daily activities such as driving, physical work or exercise.
After therapy, many patients experience a series of changes in their well-being, both physical and mental. In general, many people feel relaxed and invigorated after a hyperbaric therapy session, but there may be other feelings or sensations, such as energy, reduced pain levels, or even a slight drowsiness, all of which are normal reactions.
Physical effects are often noticed after the first sessions, as the partial increase in oxygen in the tissues leads to healing and cellular regeneration. This means reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation and speeding up wound healing processes.
Why do I feel slightly tired after a hyperbaric treatment?
Feeling tired after a hyperbaric treatment can be a common reaction and is generally considered normal. There are several reasons why you may feel tired after a hyperbaric therapy session:
- Increased metabolic effort: During hyperbaric therapy, the increased level of oxygen in the blood can increase the body's metabolic activity, which can lead to a feeling of fatigue as the body uses energy to repair and heal. Also, according to studies, the amount of calories consumed in 60 minutes of hyperbaric therapy is approximately 600 calories.
- The Detox Answer: Hyperbaric therapy can stimulate the elimination of toxins from the body, and this detoxification process can also contribute to a temporary feeling of fatigue as your body works to eliminate these substances.
- Pressure adaptation: Your body may need time to adjust to the pressure changes in the hyperbaric chamber, and this adaptation process can be tiring for some people.
It is important to talk to your doctor if fatigue persists or if you have other symptoms that worry you. Your doctor can give you personalized advice and adjust your treatment if necessary.
Does hyperbaric therapy make you feel more energetic?
Hyperbaric therapy can have different effects from one person to another. While some patients may experience slight fatigue after treatment, others may experience an increase in energy levels due to improved tissue oxygenation and stimulation of healing processes. This feeling of increased energy may be the result of better oxygenation of the cells and improved metabolism. However, it is important to remember that the response to therapy varies according to individual characteristics, general health and the condition being treated.
Is it normal to feel a little dizzy after HBOT?
In rare cases you may feel slightly dizzy after a hyperbaric therapy (HBOT) session. This can be caused by changes in pressure during the start or end of treatment, similar to the sensation you may have when taking off or landing on a plane. Your body can also adjust to the increased oxygen levels, which can temporarily lead to light-headedness. In general, these sensations are very mild and pass on their own in a short time. If dizziness persists, it is important to inform the medical staff supervising the treatment.
What is the minimum age for hyperbaric treatment?
There is no minimum age limit for hyperbaric treatment. The most important thing is that the person, whether child or adult, stays calm and relaxed throughout the treatment.
Can I fly by plane after hyperbaric treatment?
After a hyperbaric therapy (HBOT) session, it is recommended to wait a certain amount of time before flying. This is because the pressure changes associated with flying can affect how your body responds after high-pressure oxygen therapy. Although the specific waiting period can vary, many experts recommend waiting at least 24 hours after an HBOT session before flying. It is important to speak with your doctor for personalized recommendations based on your health and the details of your hyperbaric treatment.
HBOT before or after a sports workout?
Hyperbaric therapy (HBOT) can be used both before and after sports training, depending on your goals:
- Pre-workout: Using HBOT before exercise can increase blood oxygen levels, which can improve muscle performance and endurance. This can be especially beneficial for athletes preparing for competition or intense training, as it can help prevent early muscle fatigue.
- Post-workout: Using HBOT post-workout can aid in muscle recovery and reduce inflammation and soreness. Increasing oxygen levels can speed up the healing process of damaged tissues and reduce the time required for full recovery, allowing athletes to return to intense training more quickly.
Can I attend a hyperbaric therapy session if I have a cold?
Participating in a hyperbaric therapy (HBOT) session when you have a cold can sometimes be problematic, especially if the cold is accompanied by nasal congestion or ear problems. Congestion can make it difficult to equalize the pressure in the ears during pressure changes in the hyperbaric chamber, which can lead to discomfort or even pain in the ears.
It is important to talk to your doctor or specialist supervising hyperbaric treatment before attending a session if you have a cold. They can give you advice specific to your health condition and decide whether or not it is safe to continue treatment under those conditions. In some cases, it may be recommended to postpone the session until the symptoms of the cold have improved.
What can I do in the hyperbaric chamber?
Seated in comfortable armchairs, at the Hyperbarium clinic, patients must put on their face the mask through which the oxygen is supplied. During the treatment, they can watch a movie on the monitors running Netflix programs, listen to music or simply relax.
Can I communicate with the medical staff during therapy?
Patients, once entered the hyperbaric chamber, are permanently assisted by a nurse who sits next to them and are permanently monitored by two operators, with whom there is direct communication. If it is necessary to have a private conversation with the medical or technical staff from outside, there is also a telephone for this purpose.
Can I leave the hyperbaric chamber during therapy?
If a patient wants to leave the hyperbaric chamber during therapy for various reasons, he can exit through the antechamber, where depressurization is carried out as needed and the other patients can continue their therapy without interruption.
What if I'm claustrophobic?
The hyperbaric chamber in the Hyperbarium clinic is one of the most spacious models manufactured in Germany, by the manufacturer Haux Life Support. It is composed of two spacious areas, connected to each other. It is important to talk openly with the medical staff and try different techniques to find the most suitable way to manage a possible feeling of claustrophobia during treatment sessions in the hyperbaric chamber.
If, however, the anxiety symptoms do not improve, the secondary room can be used at any time to leave the therapy session.
What are the contraindications of hyperbaric therapy?
The only absolute contraindication is untreated pneumothorax! The rest are relative contraindications that must be discussed with doctors specializing in hyperbaric medicine.
How long does a hyperbaric therapy session last?
Each treatment session lasts in most cases, up to 2 hours and 30 minutes, according to the treatment schemes targeted by the European Committee of Hyperbaric Medicine and the American Society of Hyperbaric Medicine.
How many sessions do I need?
The number of sessions is determined after a consultation, depending on the patient's condition and medical history. The patient's response to therapy may be different. Even with similar conditions, some patients can respond much faster to treatment than others.
After you complete the therapeutic cycle of hyperbaric oxygenation, the specialist doctor will analyze the results of the treatment and adapt the therapeutic plan according to them, together with any subsequent recommendations.
Do I need someone to accompany me to treatment?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) does not involve the use of sedatives or other drugs that alter the state of consciousness. Thus, you can attend the treatment sessions and immediately return to your usual activities.
Does hyperbaric oxygen therapy have side effects?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) brings significant benefits, and the rare and minor side effects are generally reversible. These may include temporary discomfort in the ears or sinuses and possible temporary vision changes in some patients. It is not recommended during hyperbaric oxygen treatment to change your eyeglass prescription as any change in visual acuity is temporary. It is essential to emphasize that any possible side effects are carefully managed under the supervision of specialized medical personnel.
Is hyperbaric therapy cleared by CAS?
Although most patients are directed to treatment through a medical recommendation, unfortunately, in Romania hyperbaric therapy is not yet approved by CAS. In the United States, it is FDA-approved for 16 conditions, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, gas embolism, gas gangrene, crush syndrome/polytrauma, burns, acute hearing loss, diabetes-related conditions, or aseptic bone necrosis. At the European level, hyperbaric therapy is approved for 30 different conditions, and new conditions are studied annually for their possible inclusion in this list.
What training does the medical team have?
The entire staff of the Hyperbarium clinic is trained and certified at the European level, holding certificates of operation and practice in the field of hyperbaric medicine, ensuring the highest standards of therapy.
The doctors at the clinic have skills in hyperbaric medicine, according to the Order of the Minister of Health no. 418/2005, always applying treatment schemes targeted and regulated by the European Committee for Hyperbaric Medicine (ECMH).
The integrated telemedicine system allows parallel monitoring of hyperbaric treatment by specialist doctors located in international medical centers of excellence.
What are the technical facilities of the Hyperbarium clinic?
The hyperbaric chamber (Haux Starmed 2200 XL) of the Hyperbarium clinic is manufactured in Germany and is certified as a Class IIB medical device, in accordance with CEE 93/42. It is composed of two spacious areas, connected to each other. During the therapy, medical oxygen of 100% purity is administered, and the maximum working pressure is 3 ATA, according to FDA, UHMS and ECHM (European Committee of Hyperbaric Medicine) norms.
The hyperbaric chamber in the Hyperbarium clinic is also equipped with a bed fully equipped with ATI, for treatment in the hyperbaric environment. The ATI system contains an AED defibrillator, a secretion aspirator, an ATI multi-parameter ventilator, a mechanical ventilator and an ATI injector.
