How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps Radiation Wounds Heal
This is a collaborative post.
Radiation therapy is a life-saving treatment for many cancer patients, but it can also cause painful, slow-healing wounds. These wounds often occur in the area where radiation was targeted and can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Fortunately, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for radiation wounds.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. The increased pressure allows your lungs to gather more oxygen than would be possible at normal air pressure. Your blood then carries this extra oxygen throughout your body, stimulating the release of growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing.
How Does HBOT Help Radiation Wounds?
Radiation therapy can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the treated area, reducing the oxygen supply to the tissues. This lack of oxygen, known as hypoxia, can hinder the healing process and lead to chronic, non-healing wounds.
HBOT works by increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood, which helps to:
- Stimulate the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis)
- Enhance the formation of new skin cells and collagen
- Fight infection by boosting the immune system
- Reduce inflammation and swelling
What to Expect During HBOT Treatment
HBOT sessions typically last about 90 minutes and are usually conducted five days a week for several weeks, depending on the severity of the wound and the patient’s response to treatment.
During the session, you’ll lie comfortably in a hyperbaric chamber while breathing pure oxygen through a mask or hood. You may feel a sensation of fullness in your ears, similar to what you might experience when flying or driving at high altitudes. The medical staff will monitor you closely throughout the treatment to ensure your safety and comfort.
Finding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
If you’re suffering from a radiation wound and are interested in exploring HBOT as a treatment option, it’s essential to find a qualified provider. Start by searching for hyperbaric oxygen therapy near me online or asking your healthcare provider for a referral.
When selecting an HBOT provider, look for a facility that is accredited by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) and has experienced, licensed medical professionals on staff. They should also have a proven track record of successfully treating radiation wounds and be willing to work closely with your primary care physician or oncologist.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While HBOT is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects and risks to be aware of. These may include:
- Temporary nearsightedness (myopia)
- Ear and sinus pain
- Claustrophobia
- Oxygen toxicity (rare)
Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you in detail and help determine if HBOT is right for you based on your individual medical history and condition.
Success Stories: Patients Who Have Benefited from HBOT
Many patients have found relief from radiation wounds through HBOT. One such patient is Sarah, a breast cancer survivor who developed a painful, non-healing wound after radiation therapy.
“I had tried everything to get my wound to heal, but nothing seemed to work,” Sarah shared. “My doctor recommended hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and I’m so glad I gave it a try. After just a few weeks of treatment, I noticed a significant improvement in my wound. The pain decreased, and new, healthy skin began to grow. HBOT gave me my life back.”
Conclusion
For cancer patients suffering from radiation wounds, hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a beacon of hope. By increasing the oxygen supply to the damaged tissues, HBOT can stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a radiation wound, don’t hesitate to explore HBOT as a treatment option. With the help of a qualified provider and a commitment to the healing process, you too can experience the life-changing benefits of this innovative therapy.
