Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, also known as HBOT, is the concept of increasing pressure to enhance the flow of blood throughout the body. This can be performed using room air or with the addition of extra oxygen created by an oxygen concentrator. There are numerous indications and applications however the most well-known are for reducing nitrogen-sickness during SCUBA diving and for the reversal of carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition to these life-saving uses, HBOT can be used to enhance wound healing, to enhance respiratory function, cardiovascular function, neurologic dysfunction and many more.
For a more complete list of indications of Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy, visit the International Hyperbaric Association’s website here http://www.ihausa.org/resources/indications.html
Recently, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has increased in popularity as a treatment for autism. Numerous studies document oxidative stress and inflammation in individuals with autism; both of these conditions have demonstrated improvement with HBOT, along with enhancement of neurological function and cognitive performance. In this study, children with autism were treated with HBOT at atmospheric pressures and oxygen concentrations in current use for this condition. Changes in markers of oxidative stress and inflammation were measured. The children were evaluated to determine clinical effects and safety.