Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for PTSD

Exploring the potential benefits of HBOT in treating post-traumatic stress disorder

 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that affects millions worldwide, especially those who have experienced combat, trauma, or life-altering events. In fact, PTSD affects approximately 3.5 percent of U.S. adults every year, and it’s estimated that one in 11 people will be diagnosed with PTSD in their lifetime. [1]

Traditional treatments like therapy and medication can offer relief, but for some, the healing process remains slow and incomplete. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), an emerging treatment option, shows promise in helping alleviate symptoms of PTSD, especially when used in conjunction with other conventional treatment methods.

Continue reading to learn the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder. 

 

What is PTSD? 

Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can begin as early as three months following a traumatic event, though in some cases, they may not emerge until years later. Symptoms can persist for many months and significantly disrupt the ability to function in social settings, work, and relationships. They may also interfere with completing daily tasks.

PTSD symptoms are generally categorized into four main types:

• Intrusive memories
• Avoidance
• Negative changes in thinking and mood
• Changes in physical and emotional reactions

In children aged six and younger, symptoms may include reenacting a traumatic event or parts of it through play, as well as experiencing frightening dreams that may or may not involve elements of the traumatic event. Overall, the intensity and nature of PTSD symptoms at any age can vary over time and differ from person to person. [3]

Veterans are more likely to experience PTSD than civilians. At some point in their life, 7 out of every 100 Veterans will have PTSD. In the general population, 6 out of every 100 adults will have PTSD in their lifetime. [2]

 

 

How HBOT may benefit those with PTSD

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This treatment allows the body to absorb a higher concentration of oxygen, which can promote healing, reduce inflammation, and support overall brain function. 

Though traditionally used for conditions like decompression sickness and wound healing, HBOT has gained attention for its potential to treat brain injuries and mental health disorders, including PTSD.

PTSD often involves damage to the brain’s neural pathways, particularly in cases where trauma leads to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). HBOT may help those with PTSD by increasing oxygen flow to areas of the brain that have been damaged by trauma, promoting cellular repair and reducing inflammation. The therapy may also enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections, which is crucial for cognitive and emotional recovery.

By addressing the physical effects of trauma on the brain, HBOT could serve as a complementary treatment alongside traditional therapy methods. This physical healing process can help create a more stable foundation for psychological treatments, potentially making patients more responsive to therapy.

 

Research and ongoing studies

Research into the use of HBOT for PTSD is still in its early stages, but the results so far are promising. Studies have shown improvements in cognitive function, memory, and mood in individuals with PTSD who have undergone HBOT. Patients have also reported reductions in anxiety, depression, and other PTSD-related symptoms, leading to increased interest in HBOT as a treatment option. 

In a Veterans study report, Dr. Paul Harch, Clinical Professor and Director of Hyperbaric Medicine at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine, found that regular HBOT treatment over 4 weeks led to a significant reduction in suicidal ideation, a common PTSD symptom. After HBOT treatment, 52% of patients no longer met the threshold criteria for the diagnosis of PTSD. Ten of the 12 patients who expressed suicidal ideation before the HBOT did not express suicidal thoughts after treatment. [4]

 

Related resource:

How Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center is helping veterans heal

 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is an exciting development in the field of PTSD treatment, offering hope for those who have not found success with traditional methods. By addressing the physical damage caused by trauma, HBOT may provide a foundation for more effective psychological healing. While more research is needed to understand its benefits fully, HBOT represents a promising new avenue for treating the invisible wounds of PTSD.

As science continues to uncover the link between physical and emotional recovery, therapies like HBOT may become a vital part of holistic treatment plans, giving those with PTSD a new path toward healing. 

 

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, we aim to prioritize you and ensure your needs are met throughout your experience at our Orlando and New Smyrna Beach centers. 

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! 

Contact us today to learn more or to book an appointment.

 

 

Sources:

1: American Psychiatric Association | What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

2: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | PTSD: National Center for PTSD

3: Mayo Clinic | Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

4: LSU Health New Orleans | Veterans Study Reports Reduction in Suicide Ideation after HBOT