What is oxygen therapy?
Oxygen therapy is the administration of extra oxygen to support the body. There are two main forms:
- Normobaric oxygen therapy: oxygen through a nasal cannula or mask, at normal air pressure. This is used, for example, for people with lung problems.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT): breathing oxygen in a pressure chamber in which the pressure is higher than normal. That is what this page is about.
The science behind oxygen under pressure
Normally, oxygen in the blood is mainly carried by the red blood cells. In healthy people these are already almost fully saturated. Under increased pressure, oxygen also dissolves directly in the blood plasma. This follows the physical law of Henry: the higher the pressure, the more gas dissolves in a liquid.
As a result, much more oxygen becomes available to tissues, including tissue where blood flow is poorer. Researchers are studying how this supports recovery processes, such as the formation of new small blood vessels, collagen production and energy metabolism in cells.
How does a hyperbaric chamber work?
Construction of a hyperbaric chamber
A hyperbaric oxygen chamber is a sturdy, pressure-resistant chamber. The pressure is raised in a controlled way to the set value, for example 1.5 to 2.5 ATA (atmospheres absolute). You breathe 100% oxygen through a mask or hood. An operator monitors the pressure, the oxygen and your well-being throughout the session.
Single-person and multi-person chambers
In a monoplace chamber, one person lies down. In a multiplace chamber, several people sit together, with an attendant inside the chamber. At The Oxygen Wellness Lab we work with two spacious single-person chambers with a large window, air conditioning and an intercom.
What a session looks like
Preparation
Before your first session you have an intake consultation and fill in a health questionnaire, so that we can rule out possible contraindications. You wear cotton clothing that we provide. Jewellery and electronics do not go into the chamber.
During the session
The pressure is built up gradually. You feel this in your ears, as in an aeroplane or when diving, and you learn beforehand how to equalise your ears. You then breathe oxygen for 60, 90 or 120 minutes. You can read, rest or sleep.
Afterwards
The pressure is slowly reduced again. Most people feel relaxed and refreshed afterwards; some are a little tired. You can go straight home.
Applications
Established medical indications
In hospitals, HBOT is used for conditions including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, hard-to-heal wounds and late radiation damage.
Research and complementary applications
HBOT is also being studied for conditions including long COVID, brain injury, sports recovery and healthy ageing. For these applications the evidence is still developing and HBOT is not an established conventional treatment. Results differ from person to person.
Safety
At the pressures and durations we use, side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as pressure on the ears or sinuses. There are contraindications, however, such as an untreated collapsed lung. That is why every programme starts with an intake. We work according to the operational standards of ANDI International.
Experience it yourself?
Would you like to know whether oxygen therapy is right for you? Book a free intake consultation. Also see our prices and frequently asked questions.
This information is general and does not replace medical advice. We are not doctors. If you have symptoms, always contact your GP or specialist.
