Mini poradnik przygotowania się do zabiegu w łagodnej komorze hiperbarycznej.

mHBOT (mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) can offer many health benefits, such as improved regeneration, reduced inflammation, and increased energy levels throughout the day. To fully benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it’s worth preparing for it properly. In this article, we will discuss the key steps that individuals undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy should take to maximize its effectiveness and safety.

Preparing for the Treatment

• Consultation — Before starting a series of mHBOT treatments, any contraindications to hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be ruled out. To do this, it’s advisable to consult a doctor if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications. A specialist will assess whether the treatment is suitable for you and help you understand the benefits you can achieve. Contraindications may include, for example, uncontrolled lung conditions, recent ear surgeries, or the presence of certain types of pacemakers
• Avoiding Irritants — For 12 hours before oxygen therapy, avoid consuming alcohol. Refrain from smoking cigarettes and other nicotine-containing products for 2-3 hours before, and avoid coffee 1 hour before the treatment. These substances can affect your body’s reaction (including circulation) to the elevated pressure inside the chamber and the oxygen concentration used, which may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment or increase the risk of side effects
• Light Meal — On the day of the treatment, it is recommended to eat a light meal 2-3 hours before it begins. Avoid heavy and fatty foods that might cause discomfort during the session. It is also advisable to avoid carbonated drinks, which could cause bloating. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels, which may change under hyperbaric conditions.
• Clothing — For the treatment, wear loose, comfortable cotton clothing. Avoid synthetic fabrics, which can be irritating or generate electrostatic charges, posing a ha
• Items and Accessories — Most importantly, do not bring flammable materials into the chamber, such as lighters or matches, or electronics. You should also remove jewelry and shoes, and empty your pockets of keys and any other sharp objects. If you have any doubts, the staff will advise you exactly what is not allowed inside.

Remember not to underestimate your well-being. If you are unwell, it’s best to reschedule your appointment for another available date. Even a common cold can affect how you perceive pressure changes in your ears.

During the Hyperbaric Chamber Session

• Instructions — Before entering the chamber, the staff or therapist will explain the procedure and what to do. Make sure you understand all instructions and don’t hesitate
• Relaxation and Breathing — It’s important to relax and breathe deeply. This will help your body absorb oxygen better. You can bring your favorite book or meditate. Use the time inside to relax and unwind.
• Body Reactions — During the session, you might experience various sensations, such as a gentle pressure in your ears (similar to what you feel during an airplane takeoff or while diving). You can alleviate this discomfort by swallowing saliva, chewing gum, or performing the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and exhaling with your mouth closed) to equalize pressure in your ears. If the discomfort persists, report it immediately to the staff, who can reduce the pressure or stop the session for your safety.

After Hyperbaric Therapy

• Slow Standing — After the session, stand up slowly and wait a moment before leaving the chamber. If you have trouble getting out on your own, ask the staff for help. Sudden standing can cause dizziness or slight disorientation. It’s worth staying in the waiting room for a while before going home to ensure you feel well.
• Hydration — Drinking plenty of water is crucial to support the body’s detoxification process and replenish fluids lost during mHBOT.
• Rest — Allow yourself time to rest and recover. Avoid intense physical activity for the rest of the day so your body can fully benefit from the effects of oxygen therapy.

Additional Tips

• Regularity of Treatments — To achieve optimal results, regular mHBOT use is recommended. The frequency and duration of sessions should be determined individually, depending on the patient’s needs and expectations, general health, or doctor’s recommendations.
• Prowadzenie dziennika — śledzenie postępów w dzienniku, w którym będziesz zapisywać swoje samopoczucie przed i po zabiegach. może pomóc w monitorowaniu reakcji organizmu na terapię tlenową, identyfikacji wzorców i dostosowywaniu sesji w miarę potrzeb, co może prowadzić do lepszych wyników terapii.

Preparing for an mHBOT session involves several simple but crucial steps that can significantly impact the effectiveness of oxygen therapy. Consulting with a specialist, proper preparation before entering the chamber, relaxation during the treatment, and adequate recovery afterward are the foundations of effective mHBOT. Remember that you can always ask for help and ask questions. The staff is there to support you and ensure a safe and effective experience throughout the entire session.

Sources:

1. Jain, K. K. (2009). Textbook of Hyperbaric Medicine. Springer.
2. Moon, R. E. (2014). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy indications. Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society.
3. Leach, R. M., Rees, P. J., & Wilmshurst, P. (1998). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy. BMJ, 317(7166), 1140-1143.
4. Harch, P. G., & Neubauer, R. A. (2009). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in global cerebral ischemia/anoxia and coma. In Textbook of Hyperbaric Medicine (pp. 89-105). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.
5. Thom, S. R. (2009). Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 124(4), 55e-69e.