Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves inhaling nearly pure oxygen within a controlled, pressurised environment. The exact pressure is essential to boost oxygen absorption, ensuring it reaches areas with previously reduced circulation. This increased oxygen supply energises the body, facilitating proper healing and repair, which can lead to enhanced energy levels and various other health benefits.
Our Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in London offers numerous health benefits by exposing the body to pure oxygen at increased pressure. This accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and enhances the body’s natural repair processes. HBOT promotes new blood vessel formation, improves circulation, and boosts immune function, helping the body combat infections and recover from injuries more efficiently.
HBOT therapy also supports cognitive function, increases energy levels, and enhances overall well-being. Athletes can use HBOT for sports recovery, aiding in muscle repair and reducing fatigue. It benefits individuals with chronic wounds, traumatic injuries, or conditions like radiation damage or carbon monoxide poisoning. The versatility of HBOT makes it an effective treatment option, improving health and quality of life.
The Process
Clinical Assessment
Our expert medical team will discuss the process with you in more depth and assess your suitability for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy before commencing your programme. We will discuss any outcomes and possible side effects of HBOT in the context of your medical history.
Initiation Appointment
So long as it is deemed safe and appropriate, we will book you in for your first hyperbaric oxygen therapy session. We will show you around our clinic and equipment and prepare you for what to expect. The procedure is monitored throughout and will occur in our Soho clinic.
Programme with monthly follow-up and support
After your first session, we will continually follow up to ensure progress, answer any questions you have, and arrange for the next appointments in your customised programme.
Frequently Asked Question
See our HBOT FAQs here.
How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy increases the concentration of oxygen in the blood and gives the body’s tissues a boost in terms of exposure to rich blood plasma. This enables damaged tissues to heal much more quickly and reduces inflammation.
It also has a benefit in terms of strengthening the immune system since increased oxygen concentrations can help the body resist infection. HBOT has also been shown to increase the production of collagen and new skin cells.
What are the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
One of the main benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is recovery. Due to the anti-inflammatory, cell-repairing and pain-reduction benefits of the treatment, HBOT therapy may be particularly effective for those recovering from surgery or injury. It also has enhancement benefits of its own, which can range from mood-enhancement to improved mental clarity, as well as offering a rejuvenated appearance due to increased collagen levels and skin renewal.
Are there any side effects to having HBOT therapy?
As part of our consultation, Effect Doctors will ask for a detailed medical history and discuss any potential side effects before therapy takes place. Due to the pressurised environment in the hyperbaric chamber, the most common side effects are associated with the middle ear, which may lead to pain or the feeling that your ears need to pop.
Shortly after treatment, some people may experience fatigue, claustrophobia, headaches, or feeling light-headed. Such symptoms are normally short-lived. In rare instances, there may be a risk of eye or lung damage.
Is hyperbaric therapy suitable for everyone?
Depending on your medical history, we may advise against HBOT therapy at the clinical assessment stage of the programme. Anyone who has a history of ear problems or surgery may not be suitable for the therapy, as may those with lung conditions. Effect Doctors are medically qualified professionals and advise a full and rigorous assessment before undertaking any kind of medical procedure.
How long do the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy last?
The duration of the effects can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some may experience immediate benefits lasting from a few days to weeks, while others might need ongoing sessions for more sustained results.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy used for?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used to promote healing by increasing oxygen levels in the body. It’s helpful for recovery from injuries, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and is also used for conditions like decompression sickness and non-healing wounds.
How often should you undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
The frequency of sessions depends on the individual’s health needs and the specific condition. Some may require a series of treatments over several weeks, while others might benefit from occasional sessions. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a personalised treatment plan.