Decompression illness and how HBOT can help

Understanding decompression illness and the role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy

 

Decompression illness, also known as decompression sickness or “the bends,” is a serious condition that primarily affects divers, aviators, and individuals exposed to rapid changes in atmospheric pressure. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent long-term damage, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy has emerged as a highly effective treatment method. Continue reading to explore decompression illness, its causes and symptoms, and how HBOT can significantly aid recovery.

 

What is decompression illness?

Decompression illness occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, form bubbles in the bloodstream due to rapid decreases in pressure. These gas bubbles can lead to severe health complications by obstructing blood vessels, damaging tissues, and causing inflammation. 

Divers are commonly affected when they ascend too quickly from deep water, but pilots, astronauts, miners, and mountain climbers can also experience decompression illness under certain conditions.

 

Causes and symptoms of decompression illness

Decompression illness typically occurs due to:

• Rapid ascent from deep diving
• Sudden exposure to low atmospheric pressure
• Failure to follow recommended decompression procedures

 

Symptoms of decompression sickness include:

• joint pain
• dizziness
• headache
• difficulty thinking clearly
• extreme fatigue
• tingling or numbness
• weakness in arms or legs
• a skin rash [1]

 

If untreated, these symptoms can worsen, leading to paralysis, respiratory issues, or even death in severe cases.

 

Learn more:
How to improve blood oxygen levels?

 

How HBOT can help treat decompression illness

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases the amount of oxygen delivered to tissues. This process effectively reduces the size and number of nitrogen bubbles present in the bloodstream. HBOT promotes healing by rapidly restoring oxygen supply to damaged tissues, reducing inflammation, and alleviating symptoms of decompression illness.

The therapy operates on Henry’s Law, which states that increasing atmospheric pressure enhances the solubility of gases in liquids, enabling the nitrogen bubbles to dissolve back into the bloodstream safely. The dissolved nitrogen is then naturally eliminated by the lungs. [2]

 

Related resource:
Hyperbaric chamber therapy for drowning victims

 

 

Benefits of using HBOT for decompression illness

The benefits of HBOT for treating decompression illness are significant:

• Rapidly reduces gas bubbles in the bloodstream
• Enhances oxygen delivery to injured tissues, aiding quicker recovery
• Reduces inflammation and tissue swelling
• Minimizes the risk of long-term neurological and physical damage

 

Decompression illness is a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the most effective treatment, offering quick symptom relief and minimizing long-term complications. Recognizing symptoms early and receiving prompt HBOT can make a substantial difference in recovery outcomes.

 

How we can help

At Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center, we are here to support your healing journey. With our qualified team, highest safety standards, comfortable environment, and commitment to welcoming all patients, our goal is to prioritize you and ensure your needs are met throughout your experience at our centers in Orlando and New Smyrna Beach. 

Our state-of-the-art Sechrist 3600 monoplane hyperbaric chambers are made of clear acrylic and equipped with streaming capabilities so you can relax and watch your favorite TV show during treatment.

Our team of hyperbaric specialists is ready to answer any questions you may have before undergoing treatment! We welcome you to contact us today.

 

Sources:
1: Harvard Health
2: University Health Partners of Hawaii