Asthma treatment: Hyperbaric chamber therapy (HBOT)

The mechanism and application of a hyperbaric oxygen chamber in treating asthma are mainly reflected in the following aspects:

Principle of hyperbaric oxygen treatment for asthma

Enhance aerobic metabolism: Under high pressure, the concentration of pure oxygen inhaled by the patient increases, resulting in a significant increase in the oxygen partial pressure in the blood. This helps to enhance the aerobic metabolism of cells and generate more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thereby supporting the normal function of the bronchi and reducing spasms and inflammation.

Improve tissue hypoxia: Hyperbaric oxygen can increase the oxygen content and oxygen tension in the tissue, promote oxygen penetration deep into the tissue, help repair damaged respiratory mucosa, relieve congestion and edema, and thus reduce spasms of bronchial smooth muscles.

Reduce glandular secretion: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can reduce the secretion of respiratory glands, keep the airway open, and increase lung capacity, which is particularly important for asthma patients because it can reduce dyspnea.

Regulate immune response: Hyperbaric oxygen may reduce the excessive immune response of asthma and reduce the frequency of attacks by regulating the activity of T lymphocytes and the content of immunoglobulins.

Indications and contraindications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for asthma

Indications: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be used as an auxiliary means for asthma patients with poor drug control, frequent attacks, worsening symptoms, or gradually declining lung function.

Contraindications: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not suitable for patients with severe asthma attacks, status asthmaticus, severe emphysema or bullae, severe bronchial infection, and high fever.

Precautions for hyperbaric oxygen therapy for asthma

Treatment timing: Treatment is more effective during the non-attack period, and preventive treatment before the asthma season may be beneficial.

Combined treatment: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is usually used in combination with conventional drug therapy and does not replace the original drug treatment plan.

Personalized adjustment: The treatment plan should be adjusted according to the patient's specific condition. Severe patients may need to be accompanied by medical staff and continue conventional treatment in the cabin.

Efficacy data

The effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for bronchial asthma can reach about 89%, indicating that it has a significant effect in improving patient symptoms, reducing attacks, and improving quality of life.