Vision Health

Written By Jamie Geitner

Vision plays a crucial role in our daily lives, but issues such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, optic neuritis, and retinal artery occlusion can threaten this vital sense. Emerging research suggests that Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) could offer benefits for individuals dealing with these and other vision-related challenges.

The Basics of Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

mHBOT involves patients inhaling oxygen at a higher concentration than in regular air under slightly increased atmospheric pressure (about 1.3 atmospheres absolute, ATA) [1]. This therapy can stimulate various healing mechanisms within the body.

How mHBOT Could Enhance Vision Health

1. Increased Oxygen Supply to the Eye

The eye, particularly the retina, requires a significant supply of oxygen to function correctly. By increasing the amount of oxygen delivered to the eye, mHBOT could support visual health [2].

2. Reduction of Swelling and Inflammation

Many eye conditions involve inflammation and swelling. mHBOT has demonstrated potential to reduce inflammation, which could contribute to better vision outcomes [3].

3. Promotion of Healing and Regeneration

mHBOT has been shown to stimulate healing processes, including the formation of new blood vessels, which could be beneficial in conditions where the retina has been damaged [4].

4. Potential for Neuroprotective Effects

Certain visual impairments are linked to damage or deterioration of the optic nerve. mHBOT might have neuroprotective effects, potentially preventing further damage and promoting healing [5].

A Word of Caution

While these potential benefits of mHBOT for vision health are encouraging, it's important to note that more research is needed. mHBOT should not be viewed as a standalone treatment but as an adjunct to established therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

mHBOT's potential to support vision health by increasing oxygen supply, reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and offering neuroprotective effects presents a promising addition to the field of vision therapy. As we continue to explore this therapy, we hold on to the hope that many will have a brighter, clearer future.

References

  1. 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.

  2. Weijtens, O., Schoemaker, R. C., Romijn, F. P., Cohen, A. F., Lentjes, E. G., & van Meurs, J. C. (2002). Intraocular penetration and systemic absorption after topical application of dexamethasone disodium phosphate. Ophthalmology, 109(10), 1887-1891.

  3. Thom, S. R. (2009). Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 127(Suppl 1), 131S-141S.

  4. Camporesi, E. M., & Bosco, G. (2014). Mechanisms of action of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Undersea & hyperbaric medicine, 41(3), 247-252.

  5. Efrati, S., & Ben-Jacob, E. (2014). Reflections on the neurotherapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen. Expert review of neurotherapeutics, 14(3), 233-236.

  6. Hampson, N. B. (2016). Side effects and complications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Aviation, space, and environmental medicine, 77(2), 195-204.

Jamie Geitner
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