Chronic fatigue syndrome impacts about two million people in the United States, while some form of inflammation affects countless more. Issues such as chronic fatigue can impact all aspects of your life, from the activities you can pursue to your job.
Finding the right treatment option to get relief from the symptoms can become overwhelming because of the various choices you may have. One highly effective treatment that more people are opting for is hyperbaric therapy. What does it offer, and why can it help with both inflammation and chronic fatigue?
Chronic Fatigue and Inflammation: What Causes Them and Their Connection
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), called myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a condition that causes extreme symptoms of exhaustion for at least six months. When engaging in mental or physical activity, you start feeling worse, but you don’t get much relief from sleeping.
There are numerous symptoms that point to chronic fatigue syndrome. These include:
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Trouble concentrating, thinking, and remembering
- Dizziness
- Extreme exhaustion after physical or mental activity
- Joint or muscle pain
Chronic fatigue and inflammation are often inextricably linked. Inflammation can trigger the condition and worsen the symptoms.
Swelling is part of your body’s natural immune system response. People who have chronic conditions such as CFS struggle with immune system dysregulation, and this means that they may experience an excessive release of signaling molecules called cytokines. Certain cytokines can trigger extreme fatigue.
Inflammation also impacts energy production and how that energy is used. Because your immune system becomes unnaturally active at moments when that response is not useful, your body burns up a lot of energy. This expenditure contributes to feelings of fatigue.
Some people also experience inflammation in the brain. Some studies have found increased levels of markers of neuroinflammation, such as lactate, in cerebrospinal fluid in people with CFS.
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and How Can It Help?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment that involves breathing 100% oxygen. It’s done in a hyperbaric chamber, which provides a pressurized environment that makes the absorption of oxygen more effective.
When you breathe normally, red blood cells absorb the oxygen and transport it throughout your body. During this type of therapy, the hyperbaric chamber’s pressure makes it easier for the oxygen to dissolve into your blood plasma. This leads to higher blood oxygen levels.
Increased oxygen levels allow for the formation of blood vessels and tissues while also helping improve immune system function. It assists in the management of inflammation, and because your cells will have more oxygen, it can boost cellular energy. Both of these factors help diminish CFS symptoms.
For people experiencing cognitive issues like memory or concentration difficulties, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can also be beneficial because it provides an exponentially greater amount of oxygen to the brain.
Preparing for a Session in a Hyperbaric Chamber
If you struggle with CFS and inflammation, you may be a good candidate for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. You must clearly understand the benefits and risks associated with this treatment option and should have realistic expectations regarding the results.
You may not be an appropriate candidate for this therapy if you have a collapsed or damaged lung, have undergone a recent ear surgery, are pregnant, or have certain lung conditions.
Your Consultation
When you go to your hbot provider for the first session, they will ask you numerous questions about your health and your medical history. Let them know about all of the medications you take and whether you’ve ever had this type of therapy before. If you have, offer insight into your experience.
Your team will provide instructions on how to prepare for your appointment. You’ll have to abstain from alcohol, carbonated drinks, and caffeine before and after the procedure. Eat a nutritious snack and make sure you’re hydrated. That’s even more important if you’re diabetic so that you don’t have any unexpected drops in blood sugar.
If you smoke, avoid doing so for a few hours before the procedure. Smoking constricts your blood vessels and can reduce the therapy’s effectiveness.
Day of the Procedure
You may be given a gown or scrubs to wear, or you could be allowed to remain in your clothes if they’re comfortable enough. You’ll need to remove any makeup, jewelry, or other similar items.
There are two types of hyperbaric chambers. Monoplace chambers accommodate one person and are made up of a clear tube. You’ll lie on a bed that slides into the chamber.
There are also hyperbaric chambers that accommodate groups of people. These are multiplace chambers full of pressurized air. Each person breathes in oxygen through a mask.
Typically, you will need to spend one to two hours in the chamber. The number of sessions you’ll receive will depend on many factors, and that’s something your care team will speak to you about before your first session so that you know what to expect.
During the hbot process, communicate with your care team if something feels off. Most people don’t have any uncomfortable side effects, though you may feel pressure in your ears, which you can alleviate by yawning.
After Your Session
After the hyperbaric oxygen treatment session, your team will assess you and take your vital signs. If everything looks good, you can go home. Make sure to stay hydrated. You may feel hungry or tired after the hbot therapy session, so resting can be important. Make certain you know when your next treatment is.
Combating Chronic Fatigue and Inflammation With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Living with chronic fatigue syndrome and inflammation can be very difficult. Many people with these conditions struggle to enjoy spending time with loved ones and have a hard time managing even simple daily tasks because of the overwhelming exhaustion.
At Nenergy Boost, our team of professionals recommends hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients who are struggling with a variety of health issues, including pain, oxidative stress, and chronic fatigue. With this non-invasive and safe process, you can start feeling more energetic after just a few sessions. Contact our team to schedule a consultation.