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FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS - HBOT

  • What shall I expect during HBOT Session?
    Upon arrival a member of staff will go through your consent form, explain the session and answer your questions. We ask you to enter the chamber without jewellery, any sharp objects, electronics or flammables. You will be ask to take shoes off before entering the chamber , so remember to wear socks that day. You will be provided with an oxygen mask to maximise oxygen intake. As the chamber pressurises, you may feel a sensation in your ears, similar to ascending or descending in an airplane. We’ll guide you on how to equalise this pressure. You should not experience any pain during pressurising, if you feel any discomfort, inform the member of staff immediately. The session typically lasts 60 minutes during which you can relax. Our staff will monitor you throughout the session to ensure your comfort and safety. At the end of the session, the chamber will gradually decompress.
  • What to do if you I feel my ears are blocked during pressurising the chamber?
    Firstly, inform a member of staff . The speed of pressurising can be controlled to ensure your comfort. They will guide you on how to equalise your ears: Try to swallow or yawn. Turn your head to one side and swallow, then turn to the other side and swallow. Repeat if necessary. The Valsalva Maneuver – Pinch your nose closed, close your mouth, and lift the front-tip of your tongue towards the roof of your mouth. Attempt to blow through your pinched nose (short and sharp) but not too forcefully. This directs air from your throat into your ears and sinus air passages. Combines the above techniques: try swallowing and wiggling your jaw while blowing gently against your pinched nose. If you have a history of problems with the ear when flying or travelling in the mountains you may wish to use nasal decongestants before the first few treatments.
  • Do I need to prepare for HBOT?
    Before HBOT session commences, we will ask you to complete a short form and send it to us 48 hours prior to your session. If you are unable to do so, we could provide a hard copy to complete on the day. If this is the case, please arrive early to allow time for filling the form so your session starts on time. We encourage you to use the toilet before the session commences. Do not consume alcohol at least 24 hours prior to your treatment. Wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing from natural textiles if possible. Wear socks to enter the chamber. Avoid heavy meals before your session, but don’t come on an empty stomach. A light meal will keep you comfortable throughout. This especially important if you are diabetic to have something to eat before the session. Avoid smoking for at least 1 hour prior to your session. Smoking causes blood vessel narrowing and increases carbon monoxide and other toxins, which can hinder the effectiveness of HBOT. If you have a medical condition or taking medication, consult your doctor or a medical professional to ensure there are no factors preventing you from taking the treatment. Absolute contraindications are untreated Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or inability to equalise pressure in your ears. Potential contraindications include: pregnancy, severe emphysema ,COPD, chronic sinusitis, core and upper respiratory infection, high fever, pacemaker, recent eye surgery . Some medications are incompatible with HBOT, so consult your doctor or medical professional if you are taking medication. Avoid flying at least 24 hrs after HBOT.
  • Can I take a mobile phone inside the chamber?
    We ask clients not to take any electronic devices into the hyperbaric oxygen chamber. This includes mobile phones, tablets or laptops.
  • Can children undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
    Yes, the treatment is safe for children. There is no age restriction for HBOT. Research involving children with brain injuries, learning and developmental delays, autism, and genetic disorders has shown positive results. We ask that an adult accompanies the child during the treatment. Our chambers are big enough to accommodate an adult and a young person. For older children, an adult and a member of staff will supervise them outside the chamber. Our staff will meet with you in advance to discuss a plan for your child/-en to make sure they and you feel comfortable and safe.
  • Is HBOT safe for elderly?
    There is no age limit for using HBOT which is highly beneficial for older adults. It offers an incredible boost that helps counteract the signs of aging. Recent research indicates that HBOT can slow cell death (apoptosis) and assist with conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s, diabetic neuropathy and overall energy levels and healing.
  • Are there any side effects of HBOT?
    HBOT is considered very safe. Potential side effects are minimal. The most common side effect, affecting about 10% of users is mild ear drum irritation due to changes in oxygen pressure. Our staff will be there to help prevent this issue. It is best to avoid therapy if you have a cold or any sinus-related condition. Other possible side effects include temporary changes in vision, worsening of cataracts, dizziness, or light-headedness. While oxygen toxicity is a rare risk, our HBOT protocols and thorough client screening significantly reduce this possibility.
  • How many sessions would I need?
    Number of session would dependant on your individual needs and desired outcomes. A member of staff will discuss this with you during the initial appointment. Some people may see benefits after 1 or 2 sessions such as increased energy levels or increased quality of sleep. The anti-inflammatory response from hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is quick, showing significant effects within just 4 days. Many studies indicate that HBOT can relieve pain after only 5 to 10 sessions. Additionally, it can promote new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) in 10 to 20 sessions. More than 20 sessions are recommended for significant tissue damage and when new tissue growth is needed.
  • How long does each session last?
    We usually run 60 min session, however 90min. Give us a call if you would like to book 90 min sessions which are beneficial to speed up your recovery especially in the beginning of the injury.
  • What is mild HBOT?
    Mild HBOT operates lower pressures typically at 1.1 ATA, 1.3 or 1.5 ATA. Such protocols effectively deliver higher levels of oxygen, while allowing for greater safety. It does not take much pressure to deliver extra amounts of physiologically available oxygen. By using added pressure, more oxygen can be absorbed and transferred from the lungs into the blood, resulting in higher blood oxygen saturation. This oxygen-rich blood travels to damaged tissues, providing extra oxygen that can enhance healing and regeneration. Additionally, it offers strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, supporting overall recovery.
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