Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Conventional treatments for PTSD typically involve psychotherapy and medication. However, these approaches do not always achieve the desired outcomes for all individuals. This is where mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT) comes into the picture. mHBOT is emerging as a potentially effective alternative treatment for PTSD, offering hope for patients who seek non-pharmaceutical interventions.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of mHBOT for PTSD, the science behind it, and why it's a promising treatment option.
What is Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT)?
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a non-invasive procedure where a person is exposed to mild levels of pressure in a chamber filled with oxygen. Under this condition, the body can absorb more oxygen than it would at normal atmospheric pressure, stimulating the body's natural healing processes [1].
mHBOT and PTSD: The Connection
Scientific research has started to shed light on the potential benefits of mHBOT for patients with PTSD. Here are some of the key findings:
Improved Brain Function
One of the major benefits of mHBOT is its potential to improve brain function. Oxygen is a critical component for the optimal functioning of the brain. During mHBOT, the increased oxygen supply can stimulate the healing of brain tissues and enhance the brain's metabolic capabilities [2]. This increased oxygen supply can potentially help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PTSD, such as anxiety and depression.
Neuroplasticity
mHBOT is believed to promote neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to form new connections and pathways. Neuroplasticity is crucial for healing from PTSD because it allows the brain to adapt and change, which can lead to improved mental health outcomes [3].
Reduction in Inflammation
Research has indicated that individuals with PTSD may have elevated levels of systemic inflammation. By delivering high levels of oxygen to the body, mHBOT could potentially reduce this inflammation, thereby contributing to an improvement in PTSD symptoms [4].
Embracing mHBOT as an Alternative Treatment
While the benefits of mHBOT for PTSD seem promising, it is important to remember that this is still a relatively new area of research. Consequently, more studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings and to better understand the potential side effects or limitations of this therapy. However, the current research suggests that mHBOT could be a beneficial complement to traditional PTSD treatments.
As we continue to explore and understand the brain's intricate workings, treatments like mHBOT that can improve brain health and function provide new hope for those suffering from PTSD.
References:
Harch, P. G. (2019). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for post-concussion syndrome: contradictory conclusions from a study misinterpreted as sham-controlled. Journal of Neurotrauma, 30(23), 1995-1999. https://doi.org/10.1089/neu.2013.3096
Boussi-Gross, R., Golan, H., Fishlev, G., Bechor, Y., Volkov, O., Bergan, J., ... & Efrati, S. (2013). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve post-concussion syndrome years after mild traumatic brain injury-randomized prospective trial. PloS one, 8(11), e79995. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0079995
Zhang, K., Wang, L., Song, Y., Wang, H., Tao, X., Zhang, S., & Wang, X. (2020). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy promotes neurogenesis: where do we stand? Medical Gas Research, 10(2), 86-93. https://doi.org/10.4103/2045-9912.285505
Wilson, H. D., Wilson, J. R., Fuchs, P. N. (2006). Hyperbaric oxygen treatment decreases inflammation and mechanical hypersensitivity in an animal model of inflammatory pain. Brain Research, 1098(1), 126-128. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2006.04.075