Hyperbaric oxygen chambers are commonly used to promote healing and improve wellness. This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, helping the body absorb more oxygen than usual– between 14 and 20 times higher than normal. But how long should you stay in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to achieve optimal results? In this article, we’ll explore how long typical sessions last, what factors influence session duration, and key safety considerations.
Understanding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen in a chamber pressurized to higher-than-normal levels (often 2.0 to 2.4 ATA). This increases the oxygen available to tissues, speeding up healing and reducing inflammation. HBOT is used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic wounds, radiation damage, sudden hearing loss, and traumatic brain injuries. It is also beneficial for recovery from strokes and other conditions where increased oxygen can promote healing.
Duration of HBOT Sessions
The length of a typical HBOT session ranges from 60 to 120 minutes. Most sessions last 90 minutes, but this can vary depending on the medical condition being treated, the patient's response, and the healthcare provider's recommendations. When we talk about treatment time, we are talking about “bottom time,” which means the amount of time you are at full pressure and receiving 100% oxygen. Severe conditions such aschronic infections may require longer sessions, while less severe conditions may need shorter treatments. Patients with concussions often receive treatments of 60 minutes.
The session duration is tailored to the individual, with the physician who writes the prescription for HBOT determining the best course of treatment based on the specific patient’s needs.
Number of HBOT Sessions
The number of HBOT sessions needed varies based on the condition being treated. A typical treatment course consists of 20 to 40 sessions, with patients often receiving treatment daily for five consecutive days each week. Plastic surgery patients, or patients with minor sports injuries often come in for three to five sessions total. For chronic conditions or severe injuries, more frequent sessions may be necessary. For general wellness or minor injuries, fewer sessions may be required. The frequency and total number of sessions will be customized according to the patient’s response to the therapy and the nature of the condition.
Safety Considerations
HBOT is generally considered safe. That said, our Medical Director or Nurse Practitioner will provide you with specific instructions to minimize risks, and it is essential that you follow these instructions. While most side effects are mild, such as ear discomfort or temporary vision changes, more serious risks like oxygen toxicity can occur if the therapy is not carefully monitored. At Bay Area Hyperbarics, we have Certified Hyperbaric technicians who are also Emergency Medical Technicians monitoring and working with patients throughout each treatment. Such monitoring and check-ins with patients during treatment ensure safety, comfort and effectiveness.
As with any medical treatment, not everyone is a candidate for HBOT. Individuals with certain conditions, such as uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, compromised lungs or other pulmonary issues may need to avoid this therapy. A healthcare professional– our medical director–will assess each patient's medical history to determine if HBOT is appropriate.
Seeking HBOT Treatment in San Jose, CA
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can offer significant benefits for a range of medical conditions, with session duration and frequency depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Whether you're seeking treatment for chronic wounds, injury recovery, sudden hearing loss, radiation injury or general wellness, working closely with a physician ensures you receive the right treatment plan tailored to your health goals. If you have questions or are ready to start your journey with HBOT, contact us today at Bay Area Hyperbarics for more information and to schedule your consultation.
