Risks With HBOT
Like most things in life, there are risks with HBOT.
These risks are fortunately rare and manageable as long as the team is fully aware of any potential complications prior to treatment.
As with any treatment, side effects are possible. However, with HBOT they are minimal.
The most common is barotrauma to the ears and sinuses caused by pressure changes. This is the same effect you will experience when you go up in an airplane, but not as extreme.
You will be taught how to clear your ears prior to entering the hyperbaric chamber; on an airplane, you can swallow (parents ask their children to drink during their sessions for this reason) or you can hold your nose, close your mouth and slowly try to exhale, so you will be taught to do this during the HBOT session.
Decongestants may be helpful, but please tell your chamber technologist if you have recently had a cold or feel like you cannot ‘clear’ your ears. As in an airplane, the effect of ears ‘popping’ is temporary.
Anyone with any of the following conditions may not be a suitable candidate for HBO (this is why we work so closely with your current medical doctor):
