WHAT ARE THE CHAMBERS LIKE?
We use two types of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy chambers at our center – one for individuals (mono-place) and another for multiple people at a time (multi-place). The individual, mono-place chamber has an atmosphere that is pure oxygen, and you lie on a pad during the treatment. The multi-place has an atmosphere of regular air, and each person has a bib (plastic hood), which is placed over the head and supplies oxygen. Each person has a chair that they sit on during the treatment. Both of our units are equipped with video and music, and you can choose whether or not to use this feature. The mono-place has a clear acrylic cover, while the multi-place has portholes that you can look out of. You have constant access to the technician during each treatment.
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO GET AN HBOT TREATMENT?
Before starting your treatment, you change into scrub suits and remove your shoes. Upon entering the chamber, you pick a seat and get comfortable. As the treatment begins, you feel a pressure on your ears, much like that of being in an airplane. It is important to clear your ears constantly during this time. As the pressure increases it gets a little warmer, but it’s never uncomfortable. If the pressure is too uncomfortable or builds up too fast, simply notify the technician and it can be slowed down. When the treatment pressure is reached, you put on your bib (in the multi-place unit), and then just sit back and relax. You can drink water during the pressurization and treatment, and this can help the young ones clear their ears. When the treatment ends, the air becomes cooler and mist forms in the air. It is important to clear the ears during this time as well. The overall experience is quite pleasant, and most children find it to be fun and exciting.
