There is 21% oxygen in the air that we breathe, and our lungs
transfer this oxygen to our red blood cells (via hemoglobin). These
oxygen-filled red blood cells are carried around the body by the
plasma (fluid), which travels through the blood vessels. The oxygen
diffuses into the surrounding tissue ensuring that it is delivered
to where it is needed most.
Restricted blood flow (ischemia) causes Hypoxia
When there is a restriction (occlusion) in blood flow due to
surgery, illness, or injury, the red blood cells block the blood
vessel and are unable to transfer oxygen to the cells on the other
side of the occlusion. This causes swelling and starves the area of
oxygen, causing hypoxia (a lack of oxygen); when this occurs the
tissue begins to break down. Hypoxia triggers ‘apoptosis’
(programmed cellular degeneration – clumping and clustering of
damaged nerve cells surrounded by healthy neuronal tracts).
Apoptosis modifies the expression of plasticity (the ability of the
body to repair). Apoptotic bodies and altered DNA fragmentations are
observed in the avascular ischemic region with increased inhibitory
biochemical factors (proteins) released into the damaged parts of
the brain and spinal cord causing further deterioration. Apoptosis
has been identified in all neurodegenerative disorders including
brain and spinal cord injury. Apoptosis fosters the cycle of
continued dysfunction, degeneration and ultimate neuronal death.
The Health Benefits of HyperBaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygenation
Breathing 100% oxygen under pressure causes the oxygen to diffuse
into the blood plasma. This oxygen-rich plasma is able to travel
past the restriction, diffusing up to 3 times further into the
tissue. The pressurized environment helps to reduce swelling and
discomfort, while providing the body with at least 10-15 times its
normal supply of oxygen to help repair tissue damaged by the
original occlusion or subsequent hypoxic condition. Hyperbaric
Oxygenation (HBOT) directly increases the saturation of tissue
oxygenation, slowing and reversing hypoxic induced apoptosis –
restoring blood supply to the compromised region by the development
of new capillary networks (neovascularization) enabling the body to
alter the course and impact of the disease process.
Neurovascular Regeneration
HBOT mobilizes the body’s circulating stem cells. American Journal
Physiology – Heart and Circulatory Physiology (Nov 05)] reports a
single 2-hour exposure to HBOT at 2 ATA doubles circulating CD34+
progenitor stem cells (primordial cells targeted to salvage and
restore damaged structures); and at approx. 40-hours of HBOT;
circulating CD34+ cells increases eight fold (800%).
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