Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing in pure oxygen while inside a pressurized chamber. During HBOT, the body is exposed to higher than normal atmospheric pressure, which allows the lungs to take in more oxygen than they would be able to at normal atmospheric pressure. This increased oxygen supply can help to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in the body.

In recent months, there has been growing interest in the potential benefits of HBOT for patients with “long covid,” or persistent symptoms following a COVID-19 infection. Long covid can include a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty breathing, and it can have a significant impact on quality of life.

There is currently limited scientific evidence on the use of HBOT for long covid, but some studies have suggested that it may be beneficial. For example, a small study published in the Journal of Hyperbaric Medicine and Biology found that HBOT was associated with improvements in fatigue, sleep, and overall quality of life in patients with long covid. Another study published in the same journal found that HBOT was associated with improvements in oxygenation and exercise capacity in patients with long covid.

While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of HBOT for long covid, these early findings are promising. If you or someone you know is struggling with long covid and is interested in exploring HBOT as a treatment option, it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine if HBOT is appropriate and to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Overall, HBOT is a promising treatment option that may offer significant benefits for patients with a variety of health conditions, including long covid. It is important to continue to research and understand the potential role of HBOT in the treatment of long covid and to work with a healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable treatment option.