Chirokind & Rehabilitation Clinic focuses on maintaining health for people of all ages, helping patients pain and prevent disease.
If you’re considering Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for the first time, you might feel a mix of curiosity and uncertainty about what to expect. Whether you’re seeking treatment for an injury, a chronic condition, or simply to improve overall well-being, understanding the process can help ease any concerns and prepare you for a smooth, calm and relaxing experience.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your first HBOT session, from preparation to aftercare.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. This allows your body to absorb oxygen at higher levels, which promotes faster healing, reduces inflammation, and enhances recovery. HBOT is used for a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries and diabetic ulcers to post-surgery recovery and neurological conditions.
Before booking your first session, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider, if you have pre-existing health conditions like lung issues, ear infections, or sinus problems.
On the day of your treatment, wear loose, comfortable clothing, as you’ll be lying down in the chamber for up to 60–90 minutes. Avoid wearing perfumes, oils, lotions, or any flammable materials, as these are prohibited inside the pressurised environment for safety reasons.
Smoking and alcohol can reduce the benefits of HBOT by decreasing your oxygen levels. It’s recommended to refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before and after your session.
Having a light meal a couple of hours before your session is recommended. You don’t want to be too full, but you also don’t want to feel lightheaded from an empty stomach during treatment.
We don’t want you to feel uncomfortable during your therapy, so it’s wise to take a comfort break before entering the chamber.
Once you’re ready, you’ll be taken into the therapy room and settled into the chamber. There are pillows and blankets for your comfort, and you can take a book or your phone with you – or simply drift away and relax.
As your session begins, the chamber is gradually pressurised, similar to the feeling of ascending or descending in an airplane. You may experience slight discomfort in your ears due to the pressure change, but this is normal. To alleviate this, you can yawn, swallow, or gently “pop” your ears, similar to what you would do on a flight.
Once the chamber reaches the correct pressure, you’ll begin breathing 100% oxygen. You can relax, read, check your phone or even take a nap during this time. Most sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes.
At the end of the session, the chamber is slowly depressurised. You may feel a similar ear-popping sensation as when the pressure was increased. Once normal pressure is restored, you’ll be able to exit the chamber.
After your session, make sure to stay hydrated. Oxygen therapy can be dehydrating, so drinking plenty of water will help your body recover faster and prevent any unwanted side effects, such as fatigue.
HBOT stimulates healing, which can sometimes make you feel tired afterwards. It’s a good idea to rest after your session, especially if you’re using HBOT for injury recovery or chronic illness. Avoid intense physical activity immediately after treatment.
The benefits of HBOT are often cumulative, so you may need multiple sessions to see significant improvements, depending on your condition. Your healthcare provider or clinic will provide a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Your first Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy session is a straightforward and relaxing experience. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, you can feel confident and comfortable during treatment.
HBOT offers a range of benefits for various health conditions, and many patients report feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after just a few sessions.