Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a wonderful treatment that has so many benefits – both physical and cognitive. It has been used for a long period of time in treating problems like decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and healing wounds. However, recent studies found that hyperbaric chambers may also contribute to improving brain health. Although it is still a new area, there is much curiosity regarding the possible ways HBOT can help in treating brain issues such as Traumatic Brain Injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, and diseases affecting the brain. This article discusses some of the science involving the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how it may help support brain health.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the placement of a patient in a special chamber where the air pressure is higher than normal, usually two or three times higher. The patient then inhales pure oxygen, which, at a higher pressure, mixes into the blood at much higher levels than normal. This additional oxygen transported to the tissues is critical to the positive effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Under normal conditions, red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen, which is delivered in small quantities to tissues throughout the body. In hyperbaric conditions, however, oxygen directly dissolves into the plasma, which facilitates larger quantities of oxygen reaching tissues even with compromised blood flow. Additional oxygen may be given to initiate the healing process, edema will decrease, neovascularization may be enhanced, and tissues can be repaired.
Through this, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is believed to be particularly useful in regions that have been damaged due to trauma or disease, such as the brain.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury
Of all brain problems, traumatic brain injury is the most studied in association with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Traumatic brain injury involves an external force to the head that may be associated with bruises, bleeding, or swellings in the brain. Consequently, this often leads to a lack of oxygen supply to the sites of injury, thereby worsening the overall injury.
Basic research has shown that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy benefits people with traumatic brain injuries. One study that has been done involved patients with chronic traumatic brain injury receiving Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, leading to large improvements in cognitive function, mood, and quality of life. It seemed the therapy enhanced brain adaptability and new connection growth. This is how recovery is partly possible for the parts of the brain that have been damaged.
It can also help reduce swelling in the brain and halt the progression of further damage after an initial injury. It might reduce further brain cell death by offering more oxygen to the injured areas and thus providing a better environment for the healing process.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Stroke
Strokes occur when the flow of blood to the brain stops suddenly. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is being researched for this condition. During a stroke, the flow of blood delivers too little oxygen to the brain. Brain cells may die as a result, and this can lead to long-term problems, such as paralysis, speaking difficulties, and issues with thought processes.
Some reports suggest that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy may help stroke victims recover by stimulating the growth of new brain cells and working to repair the damaged ones. It is important to understand that timing can be everything when hyperbaric treatment takes place. Some evidence reveals that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy works best if given soon after a stroke, while the brain tissues can still benefit from more oxygen.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment for Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a group of disorders of movement and muscle tone, and the most common cause is damage to the brain before or during birth. This condition generally has been considered incurable, but Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has recently been explored as a possible treatment option for children with Cerebral Palsy to help improve motor functions and reduce muscle spasms. Some say that it improves motor and speech functions, therefore enhancing the overall quality of life. A small improvement in motor function in children with Cerebral Palsy when compared to a group that did not receive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy was observed in one study.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Brain Diseases
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are due to the progressive neuron cell damage that happens in the brain. The diseases are often associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, both being influenced by the brain’s availability of oxygen.
Discover How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Improve Your Health and Well-being
If you are interested in learning more about how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can help improve neurological health, call the offices of Nenergy Boost today at (424) 485-0626 and we will be happy to help get you scheduled.