Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HbOT) is easy to carry out, safe and, above all, beneficial to health; it is recommended by doctors to people suffering from various disorders. However, even in this case, we can identify some contraindications to its implementation.
Today, we are going to look at this topic so that you can benefit from the positive effects of this type of therapy with peace of mind. We will provide you with a comprehensive list of contraindications to HbOT.
Remember that you will only be 100% sure of your safety after consulting a qualified medical professional, so we encourage you to seek their opinion. He or she will certainly recognise which contraindications to hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be an obstacle in your case before starting it.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy – contraindications to the procedure
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy should not be used by people who have one of the conditions listed below.
Epilepsy
In people suffering from uncontrolled epileptic seizures, oxygen therapy can lead to irritation of the central nervous system. This increases the risk of further epileptic seizures.
Also, a tendency to shiver may be worth discussing with a specialist before entering a hyperbaric chamber.
Pulmonary hypertension
In general, any problems with lung function are grounds for asking your doctor if you can definitely benefit from an HbOT procedure.
Why the chamber is not the best idea for pulmonary hypertension? An increase in oxygen pressure in the body can lead to a corresponding increase in the lungs – a highly undesirable phenomenon for people suffering from this disease.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Patients with uncompensated obstructive pulmonary disease (i.e. COPD) may experience difficulty adjusting to changes in ventricular oxygen pressure. Consequently, this can lead to an increase in symptoms.
Having undergone surgery within the last 14 days
If you are fresh from surgery, it is worth waiting a little while before visiting the hyperbaric chamber. The HbOT procedure then carries the risk of air bubbles forming in the tissues.
Claustrophobia
Although modern hyperbaric chambers are designed to be as comfortable as possible (there are also models for more than one person), they are still an enclosed and relatively small space. If you suffer from an acute form of claustrophobia, this can be a strong contraindication to hyperbaric therapy.
Cranio-brain injuries
If you have recently experienced a craniocerebral injury, consult a specialist before starting HbOT. This will ensure that there is no risk of increased intracranial pressure.
Pregnancy
Due to the potential risk to the foetus, it is better to abstain from hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the duration of pregnancy.
Respiratory infections
Active respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, are a contraindication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This is because there is a risk of spreading them.
Serious heart diseases
These include, for example, failure of this organ. Oxygen therapy may cause additional strain on the heart, so we traditionally refer you first for a consultation with your doctor.
Those using a pacemaker should do the same.
Fever
If the thermometer indicates a temperature above normal and you feel the other symptoms of fever – it is better to hold off on the chamber treatment until they stop.
Psychotic conditions
One of the many complications for people suffering from psychotic states can be the difficulty in adjusting to the procedure associated with the treatment. Remember that it requires a prolonged stay in a closed chamber.
Acute ear conditions
If you suffer from acute otitis media, for example, there is a risk that the inflammation will increase and your symptoms will worsen during the HbOT procedure.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy compared to medication in use
Active therapy with certain medications may also contraindicate hyperbaric chamber treatments.
In particular, those using bleomycin, cis-platin and adriamycin should be careful.
At this stage, you probably already know very well what we would recommend before starting HbOT. That’s right, a consultation with your doctor.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is safe
Although we have listed several contraindications, it is important to note that HbOT can be used by the vast majority of those who want it. The treatment itself, thanks to procedures developed over the years, is safe and effective.
Nevertheless, we share the above list for the sake of full clarity: there are situations in which entry into the chamber should be forbidden.
Let’s now move on to the good news if you are considering purchasing a hyperbaric chamber in order to exploit its potential to increase the fitness of your body or improve the beauty of your clients.
And the good news is: not only will we provide you with the opportunity to purchase a modern and comfortable chamber, but we will also train you and your staff so that oxygen therapy will have no secrets for you.
Feel free to contact us – we will answer all your questions!
