Have you ever wondered why you might feel tired after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)? This sensation can be unexpectedly common, and understanding it may help ease any concerns you might have.
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What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, or HBOT, involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This treatment significantly boosts the oxygen levels in your bloodstream, aiding various health benefits.
Definition of Hyperbaric Therapy
In a hyperbaric chamber, you breathe in 100% oxygen at pressures higher than the normal atmospheric level. The increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve in your blood and reach areas that may have limited oxygen supply.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works
Under regular conditions, our lungs deliver oxygen to our bodies through the bloodstream. Inside a hyperbaric chamber, the increased pressure dramatically boosts the oxygen concentration in your blood. This saturation helps oxygen reach areas that typically might struggle with limited supply.
The oxygen-rich blood supports natural healing, encourages tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and strengthens immune function. Additionally, it promotes angiogenesis—the growth of new blood vessels—which plays a pivotal role in wound healing.
Why You Might Feel Tired After HBOT
Feeling tired post-HBOT is a curious occurrence. The therapy enhances healing by increasing oxygen levels, yet some people report fatigue afterward. This reaction can be attributed to several factors.
The Healing Process and Fatigue
Hyperbaric therapy boosts oxygen delivery, aiding healing and repair, which can be taxing on your body even if it’s happening at a cellular level. Your body puts energy into these processes, potentially causing temporary tiredness.
Adjustment to Increased Oxygen Levels
Your body likely needs time to adjust to the higher oxygen levels introduced during therapy. The significant increase can sometimes lead to temporary physical fatigue as your system recalibrates.
Stress and Relaxation
Entering and spending time in the hyperbaric chamber might stress some patients out. This stress, akin to how you might feel after a vigorous day, can turn into fatigue once everything winds down. Conversely, the therapy could induce a relaxation response, similar to how a massage might make you feel sleepy afterward.
Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Despite potential tiredness, HBOT can offer several health-related advantages.
Enhanced Healing and Recovery
The primary goal of HBOT is to facilitate healing, especially in cases of non-healing wounds or injuries. The high concentration of oxygen in your blood promotes quicker recovery by aiding cell regeneration and tissue repair.
Increased Immune Function
Another benefit of hyperbaric therapy is the boost in immunity. Enhanced oxygen levels can help your body combat infections more effectively, making it a valuable therapeutic option for patients with chronic infections.
Reduction in Inflammation
HBOT might also contribute to reduced inflammation, a benefit for those with chronic inflammatory conditions. By delivering more oxygen, therapy may help alleviate symptoms for conditions like arthritis or chronic pain.
Possible Side Effects of HBOT
While most people tolerate hyperbaric therapy well, some may experience mild side effects alongside tiredness.
Possible Ears or Sinus Discomfort
Changes in pressure inside the chamber can sometimes cause discomfort in your ears or sinuses, similar to what you might feel during a flight.
Mild Changes in Vision
On rare occasions, individuals may experience mild changes in vision. These usually reverse after therapy concludes.
Temporary Oxygen Toxicity
Although uncommon with repeated sessions, long or frequent exposures can lead to oxygen toxicity, which generally resolves quickly with treatment adjustments. Your clinician monitors these sessions to prevent such occurrences.
Addressing Fatigue After HBOT
While it might feel counterintuitive, you can tackle the post-session tiredness.
Rest and Hydration
Ensure you give your body ample time to rest and stay hydrated after therapy. Proper hydration can help mitigate fatigue and assist in recovery.
Monitor Dietary Intake
A balanced diet can support energy restoration and recovery. Nutrient-rich foods enhance the benefits of HBOT, adding a layer of support to your healing process.
Regular Activity and Sleep
Maintain regular physical activity and sleep patterns to help stabilize your energy levels. It aids your body in bouncing back after therapy.
Hyperbaric Therapy and Community Expert Support
For those in Pensacola and neighboring areas, Henry Chiropractic offers support and knowledge on hyperbaric therapy.
About Dr. Craig Henry
Dr. Craig Henry leads Henry Chiropractic. He’s a licensed chiropractor dedicated to enhancing patient well-being. From back pain to wellness, Dr. Henry ensures personalized and compassionate care.
Meet Dr. Aaron Hixon
Joining Henry Chiropractic, Dr. Aaron Hixon brings his background in diverse chiropractic techniques. Born and raised in Florida, Dr. Hixon harmonizes his science background with a commitment to community wellness.
Get in Touch
For those interested in exploring more about therapies like hyperbaric options or chiropractic care, you can reach out:
Henry Chiropractic
1823 N 9th Ave
Pensacola, FL 32503
(850) 435-7777
Dr. Craig Henry’s Website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s address some common curiosities surrounding HBOT:
Is feeling tired normal after HBOT?
Yes, feeling tired post-therapy is possible as your body engages in healing processes, or as it adjusts to increased oxygen levels.
How many HBOT sessions are usually recommended?
The number of sessions depends on the treatment need, ranging from a few sessions to several weeks, as advised by your healthcare provider.
When should I contact a doctor following HBOT?
If you experience persistent tiredness or other unusual symptoms, reach out to a healthcare provider for evaluation.
Can HBOT accommodate everyone?
While many benefit from therapy, some medical conditions may require adjustments or alternative treatments. Your healthcare provider can guide you.
Does therapy require special preparation?
Typically, no special preparation is needed aside from general healthcare instructions. The treatment provider will offer specific guidance based on your condition.
Recognizing why you may feel different after a hyperbaric oxygen session can help in better preparing for and responding to the therapy’s effects. Remember that support is available at Henry Chiropractic, where Dr. Craig Henry and Dr. Aaron Hixon offer their expertise to guide your well-being journey.
