Key takeaways

  • Common traumatic events that can lead to PTSD include combat exposure, physical or sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters, and terrorist attacks.
  • Symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of trauma-related stimuli, negative changes in mood and cognition, and hyperarousal.
  • PTSD can occur at any age and affects individuals from all walks of life, including children, adolescents, adults, and veterans.
  • Approximately 8.7% of all adults in the United States will develop PTSD at some point in their lives.
  • About 3.6% of adults in the U.S. currently suffer from PTSD, highlighting its significant impact on mental health.
  • Women are more likely to develop PTSD than men, although both genders can be affected.
  • PTSD can coexist with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse disorders, and eating disorders.
  • Individuals with PTSD may experience significant impairment in various areas of life, including work, relationships, and daily functioning.
  • Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered one of the most effective treatments for PTSD, helping individuals process traumatic memories and learn coping strategies.
  • PTSD symptoms can be triggered by reminders of the traumatic event, such as sights, sounds, smells, or situations that resemble the original trauma.
  • Veterans are at particularly high risk of developing PTSD due to exposure to combat and other traumatic events during military service.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has shown effectiveness in treating various disruptions of brain structure and function, including stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain neurological conditions. By delivering increased levels of oxygen under pressure, HBOT promotes oxygenation of tissues in the brain, which can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and support neuronal recovery. In this article, we would discuss the possible roles and benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for PTSD.

Overview of PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events may include natural disasters, accidents, combat, physical or sexual assault, or other life-threatening situations.

Symptoms of PTSD can manifest in various ways and may include intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event, nightmares, severe emotional distress, avoidance of triggers associated with the trauma, negative changes in mood and cognition, hyperarousal, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating.

Does Hyperbaric chamber work for PTSD?

Yes! Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has gained attention for its potential efficacy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A notable study involving military personnel with PTSD revealed promising results. Over a 4-week period of regular HBOT treatment, significant reductions in symptoms were observed. Remarkably, 52% of participants no longer met the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis after the treatment. Additionally, improvements were noted in anxiety and depression symptoms, with many individuals being able to reduce their psychoactive medication intake.

Benefits of hyperbaric chamber for PTSD

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has shown potential benefits for individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Some of the advantages of HBOT for PTSD may include:

  1. Reduction in Symptoms: Studies have suggested that regular HBOT sessions can lead to a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, including intrusive memories, flashbacks, hyperarousal, and avoidance behaviors.
  2. Improved Mood: HBOT may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression commonly associated with PTSD, leading to an overall improvement in mood and emotional well-being.
  3. Enhanced Cognitive Function: By promoting oxygenation and neuroplasticity in the brain, HBOT has the potential to improve cognitive function and memory in individuals with PTSD, allowing for better concentration and mental clarity.
  4. Stress Reduction: HBOT sessions in a controlled environment can provide a calming and relaxing experience for individuals with PTSD, helping to reduce stress levels and promote a sense of well-being.
  5. Decreased Medication Dependency: Some individuals undergoing HBOT for PTSD have reported a reduction in the need for psychoactive medications, as the therapy may address underlying neurobiological factors contributing to symptoms.
  6. Improved Sleep: HBOT has been associated with improved sleep quality and patterns in individuals with PTSD, potentially reducing the prevalence of insomnia and sleep disturbances commonly experienced by PTSD sufferers.

Side effects of hyperbaric chamber for PTSD

While hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is generally considered safe, there are potential side effects and risks associated with its use, particularly for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Some of these side effects may include:

  1. Barotrauma: HBOT involves exposure to increased atmospheric pressure, which can lead to barotrauma or pressure-related injuries. Barotrauma may affect the ears, sinuses, and lungs, causing symptoms such as ear pain, sinus discomfort, or even more serious complications like pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
  2. Oxygen Toxicity: Breathing high concentrations of oxygen under pressure can result in oxygen toxicity, which may manifest as symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, seizures, or visual changes. Individuals undergoing HBOT may be at risk of oxygen toxicity, especially with prolonged or high-pressure treatments.
  3. Claustrophobia: Some individuals with PTSD may experience feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety while inside the hyperbaric chamber, particularly if they are prone to sensory sensitivities or have difficulties with confined spaces. This may lead to discomfort or distress during HBOT sessions.
  4. Increased Arousal: The pressurized environment of the hyperbaric chamber may induce feelings of heightened arousal or agitation in individuals with PTSD, particularly if they have a history of trauma-related hyperarousal symptoms. This can exacerbate anxiety and stress during HBOT sessions.
  5. Discomfort or Restlessness: Individuals with PTSD may experience discomfort or restlessness during HBOT sessions, particularly if they have difficulties with sitting still, following instructions, or tolerating sensory stimuli. Strategies to promote comfort and relaxation may be necessary to enhance the overall experience.
  6. Triggering of Traumatic Memories: For some individuals with PTSD, the sensory experience of HBOT, such as the confined space or the sound of pressurization, may trigger traumatic memories or flashbacks, leading to distress or re-traumatization.

Frequently asked questions

How does hyperbaric chamber therapy work for PTSD?

HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which is believed to increase oxygen delivery to tissues and promote healing. It may also modulate neural activity and reduce inflammation in the brain, potentially alleviating symptoms of PTSD.

How many hyperbaric chamber therapy sessions are typically recommended for PTSD?

The recommended number of HBOT sessions for PTSD can vary depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Some studies have used protocols involving multiple sessions over several weeks, but the optimal duration and frequency of treatment are still being researched.

Is hyperbaric chamber therapy covered by insurance for PTSD treatment?

Insurance coverage for HBOT for PTSD treatment may vary depending on individual insurance plans and specific medical indications. It’s advisable to check with insurance providers to determine coverage details.

Sources

Doenyas-Barak, K., Catalogna, M., Kutz, I., Levi, G., Hadanny, A., Tal, S., Daphna-Tekoha, S., Sasson, E., Shechter, Y., & Efrati, S. (2022). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves symptoms, brain’s microstructure and functionality in veterans with treatment resistant post-traumatic stress disorder: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial. PLoS ONE, 17(2). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0264161

Lin, C., Huang, K., Tung, C., & Liu, Y. (2019). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy restored traumatic stress-induced dysregulation of fear memory and related neurochemical abnormalities. Behavioural Brain Research, 359, 861-870. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbr.2018.07.014

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