Science of HBO
How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work and what happens in a hyperbaric environment?
What is the science behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Part of the charitable remit of ‘DDRC Healthcare’ is to increase the understanding and use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).
‘Hyper‘ means more/over AND ‘Baric‘ refers to pressure of the atmosphere.
You may find hyperbaric oxygen therapy described as ‘HBO’ therapy or as ‘HBOT’.
How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work?
Air contains nearly 21% oxygen and more than 78% nitrogen. During hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy the oxygen percentage breathed by the patient is increased to 100%, i.e. almost five times more than in air.
The pressure of the oxygen breathed by the patient in HBO is usually 2 to 3 times greater than atmospheric pressure. During HBO therapy the patient is breathing 10 to 15 times more oxygen than they would be when breathing air at normal pressure.
During treatment oxygen is breathed through the lungs, dissolved in the blood plasma, and transported around the body via the blood supply. Even where the blood supply is poor, the high levels of oxygen dissolved in the plasma provide significantly elevated levels. The effects of the extra oxygen vary according to the type of tissue they reach and the underlying condition that has prompted the use of HBO.
What are the reported effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Some of the reported effects include:
– improved white blood cell function (important to fight infection and reduce stickiness after injury)
– reduction of inflammation and swelling
– development and growth of new blood vessels (neoangiogenesis)
– increased bone growth and bone repair
– improved antibiotic activity
– increased collagen deposition and improved ligament and tendon repair
– compression of gas bubbles
– suppression of toxin production in some infections
– increased circulation of stem cells from bone marrow.
Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO / HBOT) a Medicine?
HBO is like any other medicine or drug, with indications, contra-indications and potential side-effects. An appropriately qualified physician needs to ensure HBO is appropriately prescribed, as it is possible to have too much oxygen in the blood stream.