In a hyperbaric chamber, the air pressure is raised above normal, and you breathe 100% oxygen. Your provider decides whether HBOT may be appropriate for you, along with the pressure and the number of sessions.

The FDA has cleared hyperbaric chambers for a specific list of conditions, such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning and certain non-healing wounds. Use for other conditions is not FDA-cleared, and the FDA has warned consumers about unproven claims. Your provider will discuss whether HBOT fits your situation. Individual results vary.

NCFM uses single-person (monoplace) Sechrist HS Series hyperbaric chambers. Each chamber is a clear acrylic tube, so you can see out during your session.

• Step 1. Evaluation: your provider reviews your history and medications and orders a chest X-ray before your first session.
• Step 2. Check-in: you change into the 100% cotton clothing we provide and leave restricted items outside.
• Step 3. Pressurization: the technician slowly raises the pressure. You may feel fullness in your ears, like on an airplane, and the technician will show you how to clear them.
• Step 4. Treatment: you lie down and breathe oxygen for about 60 to 90 minutes. You can watch a movie, listen to music or rest, and you can talk with the technician by intercom.
• Step 5. Finish: the pressure is lowered slowly before you leave the chamber. Most people return to normal activities afterward.

• A chest X-ray is required before you start.
• Wear the 100% cotton clothing we provide.
• Don’t apply cosmetics, hair or skin products, deodorant, perfume or nail polish before treatment.
• No carbonated drinks or tobacco for two hours before treatment.
• Jewelry, paper, electronics, hearing aids and hard contact lenses aren’t allowed in the chamber.

• Ear or sinus pressure or pain, the most common side effect
• Temporary changes in vision
• Fatigue or lightheadedness
• Rarely, lung injury or seizures caused by oxygen
• Fire risk, which is why items are restricted in the chamber

More details to come.

• Have a cold, sinus infection or ear problem
• Have a lung condition, such as COPD, asthma or a history of collapsed lung
• Are pregnant or may be pregnant
• Have a seizure disorder, a fever, or a pacemaker or other implanted device
• Have had recent ear or chest surgery
• Feel anxious in small spaces
• Take any medications (your provider will review all of them)

More details to come.

800 Goodlette-Frank Rd. North, Suite 160, Naples, FL 34102. Hyperbaric office (239) 434-9699, hbot@naplescfm.com.