Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how does it work?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat some medical conditions. The treatment takes place in a chamber that you can see out of. You lie on a stretcher inside the chamber and can watch TV or a movie. The chamber is pressurized. You will breathe one hundred percent oxygen and your blood will carry the extra oxygen to the injured area.

How can I find out of HBOT is for me? 

If you have a wound that hasn’t healed in four weeks, ask your doctor. Your physician will evaluate your wound and decide if HBOT is for you.

Is HBOT covered by insurance?

Medicare has approved coverage for HBOT for many types of chronic, non-healing wounds. Many private insurance companies follow Medicare rules. We will review your insurance plan with you before your therapy starts to make sure you know what your insurance covers.

What if I have diabetes?

Your doctor will discuss blood sugar control with you. The HBOT technician will check your blood sugar before and after treatment. Take your medicine as prescribed and eat before HBOT.

What if I feel claustrophobic?

When you are in the chamber you can see out in all directions. If you are anxious, the doctor can prescribe medicine to help you relax.

Can someone stay with me during HBOT?

To protect the privacy of our patients, family members may not remain with you during your treatment. A waiting room is provided for their comfort. A trained staff member is always in the room during treatment and you can communicate with them at any time.

What should I wear?

For your safety, we will provide you with clothing to wear during your treatment. Please do not wear any of the following items when you come to the Center for HBO therapy:

  • Makeup
  • Wigs or hair pieces
  • Nail polish that has been on less than 24 hours (you can paint your nails at least 24 hours before an HBOT)
  • Contact lenses
  • Deodorants
  • Skin lotions
  • Perfume cologne or aftershave
  • Jewelry, including watches and earrings
  • Hair spray or oils

Additionally, you cannot have anything in your mouth during treatment, such as gum, loose fitting dentures or candy.

How many treatments will I need?

Treatment is different for everyone. It depends on your condition and response to therapy. Most patients receive between 30 and 40 treatments.

How long does a treatment last?

Treatment will last between 90 and 120 minutes. You will receive one treatment a day, Monday through Friday. Your doctor will tell you if you need more than one treatment a day.

What should I expect before treatment?

The HBOT technician will take your vital signs and listen to your lungs. The inside of your ears will be examined and you will be asked about your pain. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar will be checked. Let the staff know if you feel ill or if you are congested. Safety checks will be done before each treatment.

Is HBOT painful?

HBOT is not painful. At the beginning of your treatment you may feel pressure in your ears like when you fly in a plane or drive up into the mountains. You may have to clear your ears. Some methods for clearing your ears include:

  • Swallowing
  • Yawning
  • Opening and closing your mouth

What should I tell my doctor before I begin HBOT?

Tell your doctor if you have:

  • An internal battery operated medical device such as a pacemaker or pain pump. The staff will make sure your device can be used in the chamber.
  • If you have an external battery operated medical device, it cannot go into the chamber. Your HBOT physician will contact your doctor for instructions on how to deal with this device.
  • Inform your HBOT doctor if you have EVER had chemotherapy.
© 2018 Healogics