Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and a wide range of symptoms. While each condition is unique, many share overlapping challenges such as pain, fatigue, and tissue damage. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may help reduce inflammation, support immune regulation, and promote healing in those living with an autoimmune disease.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Symptoms of Crohn’s disease often include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. The condition can affect different areas of the digestive tract and is known for its unpredictable flare-ups and periods of remission.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can be an effective Crohn’s disease treatment as it may help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing. By increasing oxygen delivery to damaged intestinal tissues, HBOT seeks to support the immune system and accelerate cellular repair. Some studies have shown significant symptom relief after using HBOT to treat IBD.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to nerve damage and disrupted communication between the brain and body. Symptoms can vary widely and may include fatigue, numbness, vision problems, and mobility issues.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may help reduce inflammation, support neural tissue recovery, and enhance overall quality of life for people with MS. By flooding the body with oxygen, HBOT seeks to support nerve regeneration and mitigate symptom flare-ups.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the joints, leading to chronic pain, swelling, and joint deformity over time. It can also affect other parts of the body such as the lungs, skin, and heart.
HBOT has been studied for its potential to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress in people with RA. The increased oxygen levels may help relieve pain, improve circulation, and support tissue repair in affected joints.
Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs, causing widespread inflammation. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs. Lupus symptoms vary but often include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fevers. Lupus tends to flare and remit unpredictably.
HBOT may help reduce systemic inflammation and improve tissue oxygenation in individuals with lupus. HBOT supports immune function, improves blood flow, and enhances tissue repair, which may provide symptom relief for those with Lupus. While not a cure, it can be a helpful tool in managing flare-ups and promoting recovery.
Other Inflammatory Conditions
Autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions come in many forms, including conditions like psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and autoimmune thyroid disease. These disorders often result in systemic inflammation and immune system dysfunction.
HBOT may be a helpful complementary therapy by decreasing inflammation, enhancing oxygen delivery to affected tissues, and promoting cellular repair. Its systemic effects may provide symptom relief and improved overall wellness.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Benefits
Much like bubbles packed into a soda can, the pressurized oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber fills your bloodstream with revitalizing oxygen. This oxygen travels throughout your body to:
Repair, rebuild, and restore injuries
Stimulate cellular energy production (ATP)
Support regrowth of nerves, cartilage, and bone
Control inflammation, swelling, and pain
Fight off infections and pathogens
Rejuvenate skin, collagen, and organs for anti-aging effects
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at Home
For those living with an autoimmune disease, HBOT at home offers daily access to therapy without ongoing clinic visits. It’s an affordable and convenient option that helps reduce inflammation, improve tissue oxygenation, and support overall well-being. With regular use, home hyperbaric oxygen chambers can be an empowering addition to long-term care.