HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) is a daily treatment where a
patient enters a hyperbaric chamber and the atmospheric pressure is
increased well-above sea level. After reaching the desired pressure
level, one will typically spend a minimum of one hour inside the
chamber where they rest and breathe normally. This increase in
pressure allows for oxygen to exponentially dissolve into the liquid
portion of a person blood system (blood plasma saturation) with
every breath they take.
What are the benefits:
By dissolving more oxygen within the blood plasma, oxygen can reach
deep into inflamed tissues and areas of the body suffering from low
blood flow and oxygen levels. This has been scientifically shown to
help decrease inflammation throughout the body, reintroduce blood
flow and induce a wide array of positive physiological and
bio-chemical effects.
How does it help individuals with autism:
It has been demonstrated that the majority of patients affected by
ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) have high levels of inflammation,
compromised blood flow and low oxygen delivery to certain parts of
the body. HBOT has been shown in clinical data to help decrease
inflammation and reintroduce oxygen and blood flow to affected
areas, including affected regions in the brain. This has
demonstrated to help improve overall functioning, receptive
language, speech and eye contact scores. Additionally, it has been
shown to help decrease irritability, hyperactivity and inflammatory
markers including TNF-alpha and C-reactive protein levels.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders
How long before we start seeing benefits:
Every therapy and medication, of any form, has a unique response
rate for every patient. Typically, marked improvements have been
seen and recorded after competing 40 hours of therapy within 30
days. However, HBOT is viewed as a process as it is a daily,
indefinite therapy, which can be regarded as a life-long treatment
regimen for some patients. Completing a minimum of 40 hours of
therapy within 30 days is the most highly recommended protocol for
HBOT, regardless of the pressure. This recommendation parallels
clinical data and directly correlates to the best results that have
been seen and recorded.
How much does it cost:
Typical cost per session can range between $100-$150. However, many
clinics offer price breaks below $100 per treatment when a patient
commits to a 40 hour protocol. Essentially, HBOT can range between
$3,000 to $5,000 for the month of treatment. Thousands of families
affected by ASD have purchased a chamber for home use to save on
cost and to treat at the convenience of the family’s schedule.
Chamber providers commonly have rental programs in place at a
fraction of the cost associated with treating in a clinical setting.
HBOT is a well-tolerated and exceptionally safe therapy, even when
administered daily in a home environment.
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