HEALTH CONDITIONS/ CONTRAINDICATIONS

Mild Oxygen Hyperbaric Therapy (HBOT) is a widely used and generally considered safe method of treatment. People of all ages can potentially benefit from the beneficial properties of oxygen.

However, there are situations in which treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is not recommended. As with any medical procedure, there are also contraindications for HBOT. People with certain chronic diseases or conditions should consult a doctor before undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to determine if it is safe for them

Neurology

  • Seizure disorder

  • Epilepsy

  • Optic neuritis (damaged optic nerve)

  • Inflammation of the optic nerve

  • Eustachian tube disfunction

  • Hearing aids need to be taken off before HBOT session if possible

Cardiology (Heart)

  • Congestive heart failure (CHF) exacerbation

  • Pacemaker (most new models of pacemakers are adapted to work in elevated pressure, however it is important to check the specification sheet of the device, to confirm whether it is certified to work under elevated pressure before considering HBOT)

  • Congenital spherocystosis

  • Surgical procedures in the chest and respiratory system within less than 3 years from the date of surgery

Medicines

  • Bleomycin sulfate (Contraindicated regardless the length since the medicine was administered),

  • Cis-platinum

  • Doxorubicin

  • Ephedrine

  • Pseudo-ephedrine

  • Methylphenidate

  • Lisdexamphetaine

  • Disulfiram

Pulmonary (Lungs)

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Pulmonary edema or pneumothorax – collapsed lung (untreated pneumothorax is an absolute contraindication)

  • Lung diseases with carbon dioxide retention

  • Emphysema (shortness of breath) with CO2 retention

  • Uncontrolled asthma

  • Asymptomatic pulmonary lesions seen on X-ray

Other

  • Claustrophobia

  • High fever

  • Uncontrolled Hyperthermia

  • Open wounds

  • Haemorrhage

  • Pregnancy

  • Hemolytic anemia

  • Epidural pain pump,

  • Recent thoracic or ear surgery

  • Acute ear problems

  • Chronic sinusitis

  • Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses

  • Upper respiratory infections

  • Acute ear problems

  • Disseminated neoplastic disease

  • Diving and flying 24 hours before and after oxygen therapy treatment