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Essential Precautions Before and After Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: What You Need to Know
Discover the key precautions for safe and effective hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy. Learn what to do before, during, and after treatment to maximize healing for trauma, diabetes, neurological issues, and more.
May 14th,2025
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Therapy is a therapy that accelerates physical healing by inhaling pure oxygen in a high-pressure environment, and is widely used for trauma recovery, neurological disorders, diabetic foot, and more. However, before and after entering the hyperbaric chamber, some key considerations must be understood to ensure maximum efficacy and safety. This article provides you with a detailed analysis of the precautions in the whole process of hyperbaric oxygen chamber treatment.
Preparation for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
1. Consult a medical professional
Before undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it is important to consult a physician or undergo an evaluation to ensure that there are no contraindications to the treatment, such as:
Uncontrolled pneumothorax
Severe lung disease
Certain ear diseases (e.g., perforated eardrums)
2. Avoid irritants
The following items should not be used prior to treatment:
Alcohol-containing skin care products
Oily products
Flammable cosmetics (e.g., hairspray, sprays)
These substances may cause fire or discomfort in a hyperbaric environment.
3. Wear loose-fitting, cotton clothing
Avoid wearing synthetic fiber clothing to prevent potential risks from static electricity.
Precautions to be taken when entering the hyperbaric chamber
1. Follow the operator's guidelines
Before entering the chamber, you should cooperate with the chamber operator in checking the equipment and understanding the basic operation of the emergency buttons, intercom system, and the use of oxygen masks.
2. Tips for regulating ear pressure
As the cabin pressure rises, ear distension and ear pain are likely to occur. Users can relieve them by the following methods:
Swallowing
Yawning
Nasal pinching and puffing (Valsalva method)
3. Stay calm and avoid strenuous activities
The cabin should be kept quiet and free from strenuous activities. Some pods allow reading or listening to music, which can be appropriate to relax, but avoid operating electronic devices (such as cell phones) to prevent risks.
Precautions after hyperbaric oxygen therapy
1. Decompress slowly to prevent discomfort
Pressure will be decompressed slowly after the treatment is finished. At this time, you should still maintain smooth breathing and avoid standing suddenly to prevent dizziness. 2.
2. Observe body reaction
Some people may experience mild fatigue, drowsiness, ear discomfort, etc. This is a normal reaction. However, if you have the following abnormal symptoms, you should consult a doctor promptly:
Severe headache
Shortness of breath
Blurred vision
What groups of people need special attention when using hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Pregnant women: should be used under medical advice.
Children: Professional supervision is required and is usually only recommended for specific medical needs.
Wearers of hearing aids, pacemakers: must inform the treatment staff in advance.
People with claustrophobia: Transparent window chambers or open oxygen chambers may be considered.
