Oncology and Radiation Therapy through HBOT
Radiation therapy is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer, but it can also damage healthy tissues around the treatment area. At Under Pressure, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) offers a valuable adjunctive treatment to support the healing of radiation-damaged tissues, enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies, and improve patient outcomes. Whether you're undergoing radiation therapy or managing its aftereffects, HBOT can play a crucial role in your recovery and long-term health.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a non-invasive treatment in which you breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber at 2.0ATA or greater pressure. This heightened oxygen delivery accelerates the healing of tissues damaged by radiation, reduces inflammation, and supports overall recovery. HBOT can also enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments, making it a vital addition to your oncology care plan.
Applications in Oncology:
- Radiation-Induced Tissue Damage:
- Impact: Radiation therapy can harm healthy tissues, leading to conditions like radiation proctitis, cystitis, and tissue necrosis, which cause pain and inflammation.
- How HBOT Helps: HBOT improves oxygenation to damaged tissues, promotes new blood vessel formation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing, helping prevent long-term complications.
- Osteoradionecrosis:
- Impact: This severe condition occurs when bone tissue becomes necrotic following radiation exposure, often affecting the jaw. It can lead to pain, fractures, and infection.
- How HBOT Helps: HBOT supports the healing of necrotic bone by enhancing oxygen supply, promoting new bone growth, and reducing the risk of infection. It is often used before and after surgery to improve outcomes.
- Soft Tissue Radionecrosis:
- Impact: Soft tissue radionecrosis occurs when radiation therapy damages muscles, skin, and connective tissues, leading to chronic wounds, pain, and functional impairment.
- How HBOT Helps: HBOT improves blood flow, reduces fibrosis, and stimulates tissue repair, helping to heal damaged soft tissues.
- Post-Radiation Fibrosis:
- Impact: Radiation therapy can cause fibrosis, where connective tissue thickens and scars, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.
- How HBOT Helps: HBOT helps reduce fibrosis by promoting tissue elasticity and improving function, easing the side effects of radiation.
- Enhanced Response to Radiation and Chemotherapy:
- Impact: Some cancer therapies, such as radiation and certain chemotherapies, are more effective in oxygen-rich environments.
- How HBOT Helps: By increasing oxygen levels in the tumor area, HBOT makes cancer cells more responsive to treatment, improving therapy effectiveness while protecting healthy tissues.
How HBOT Works for Oncology and Radiation Therapy:
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy supports cancer recovery by:
- Promoting Tissue Healing: Accelerates the repair of radiation-damaged tissues, reduces pain and inflammation, and helps prevent tissue necrosis.
- Enhancing Treatment Efficacy: Improves oxygen levels in the body, making radiation and chemotherapy more effective.
- Reducing Side Effects: Mitigates side effects like fibrosis and necrosis, improving quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
- Supporting Overall Recovery: Helps regenerate healthy tissues and reduces long-term complications, supporting recovery and well-being.
Why Choose Under Pressure for Oncology and Radiation Therapy Support?
At Under Pressure, we provide advanced Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to support oncology patients. Our expert team collaborates with your oncology care providers to create personalized treatment plans that address your needs. We are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes with state-of-the-art care in a compassionate environment.
The treatment process
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation focuses on assessing your condition and determining how HBOT can support your oncology or radiation therapy treatment.
- Medical History Review: A comprehensive review of your cancer treatment history, including past and ongoing therapies, to ensure HBOT aligns with your care plan.
- Condition Assessment: Evaluate the extent of tissue damage, inflammation, or side effects from radiation or chemotherapy to identify areas of focus for therapy.
- Treatment Goals: Establish objectives such as reducing side effects, accelerating tissue healing, or enhancing the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.
- Customized Plan Development: Design a personalized HBOT plan tailored to support your treatment schedule and maximize recovery outcomes.
Treatment Process
- What to Expect During Your HBOT Sessions: Each session lasts 60 to 120 minutes. During this time, you'll relax in a pressurized chamber while breathing pure oxygen. You may feel a slight pressure in your ears, similar to an airplane ascent. This sensation is normal and typically subsides as your body adjusts.
- Session Frequency: The number of sessions will depend on your condition and its severity. Multiple sessions per week over several weeks to months may be recommended for oncology support. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and health goals.
- After the Session: Many patients feel relaxed and report relief from pain or increased energy after their HBOT sessions. You can return to normal activities immediately after.
Preparing for Your HBOT Treatment
- Avoid smoking and caffeine 2 hours before, and avoid drinking alcohol 12 hours before treatment.
- Hydrate well and eat a protein-rich meal before.
- Consult with our team if you’re on medications to ensure safe usage.
- Post-Treatment Care: Resume normal activities post-session, but stay hydrated and avoid strenuous tasks. Do not smoke 2 hours after treatment, avoid flying and alcohol consumption for 12 hours.
Contraindications and Safety Information
- Who Should Avoid HBOT: HBOT is generally safe, but certain conditions may prevent its use, including:
- Untreated pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
- Certain lung diseases like COPD with air-trapping
- Recent ear or sinus surgery
- Severe claustrophobia
Our team will conduct a thorough assessment to ensure that HBOT is appropriate for your condition.
Expected Outcomes
- Healing Timeline: Recovery and relief timelines depend on the severity of the condition and your overall health. Some patients notice improvements after a few sessions, while others may need more extensive treatment.
- For Oncology Patients: Patients often see reduced side effects from radiation therapy, faster healing of damaged tissues, and improved quality of life within weeks of regular HBOT sessions.
- Long-Term Benefits: Regular HBOT sessions may help reduce the risk of further radiation injuries, support long-term recovery, and improve overall well-being.
What our patients say
I had a wonderful experience at the salon. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy helped me with my chronic fatigue, and I noticed a significant boost in my energy levels.
The staff is attentive and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. I will definitely be recommending this place to my friends!
Jessica Wilson
As an athlete, I am always looking for ways to improve my performance and recovery. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy offered here has been a game changer for me. I feel more energized and my muscle soreness has decreased.
The team is professional and truly cares about their clients' well-being. I can't thank them enough!
David Brown
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has transformed my skincare routine. My complexion has improved dramatically, and I love how my skin feels. The salon's atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff is always ready to help.
I highly recommend this service to anyone looking to enhance their beauty regimen!
Emily Davis
I was skeptical at first, but after trying hyperbaric oxygen therapy at this salon, I am a believer! My recovery time after workouts has significantly decreased, and I feel more vibrant overall.
The environment is calming, and the team is dedicated to providing the best experience possible. I will definitely be returning!
Michael Smith
After my sessions at the salon, I feel rejuvenated and full of energy. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy has made a noticeable difference in my skin's appearance, and I can't recommend it enough!
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, making each visit a pleasure. I always leave feeling refreshed and looking my best.
