This treatment option utilizes oxygen to provide anti-aging health benefits.
Understanding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, also known as HBOT, enhances the body’s natural ability to heal by delivering a concentrated amount of oxygen to the cells. The therapy makes use of a pressurized air chamber or mask containing 100% oxygen. Breathing in this environment allows the lungs to gather a higher amount of oxygen and deliver it more effectively to various parts of your body, especially wounded or aging tissue in need of higher levels. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen the blood can carry and can trigger the release of stem cells, which promote healing.
Benefits
Sufficient oxygen content in affected tissues can provide relief for many conditions. There are over 120 internationally recognized indications for which HBOT has been shown to be effective, including autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, inflammation, and wound recovery, as well as aging. HBOT can address common age-related diseases, such as arthritis and coronary heart disease, and new research indicates that HBOT can even slow cell death and contribute to the regeneration of tissue and blood vessels. It also has cosmetic benefits – HBOT encourages the production of collagen, which can restore elasticity in aging skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
What to Expect
HBOT is a non-invasive and painless treatment. During your appointment, you will either enter an air chamber or receive an oxygen mask and sit or lie comfortably. Session lengths range, with the average lasting around 90 minutes. You may experience pressure in your ears, which can be alleviated by yawning or swallowing. Make sure to hydrate before and after your appointment.
Outlook
Depending on the condition you’re treating, you will likely benefit from more than one session. Consult with your doctor beforehand, as HBOT is often partnered with other therapies and medicines to provide the best possible results. Taking advantage of this treatment option is easy and can set you on the path toward healing.
An Expert Weighs In
