For many patients dealing with chronic, non-healing wounds, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) offers a powerful path to accelerated healing. At Central Coast Wound Care + Hyperbarics, we specialize in providing state-of-the-art HBOT in a comfortable, supportive environment. Here’s what you can expect on your HBOT journey:
Before Your Session Begins
Your journey with HBOT begins with a thorough consultation with our experienced team. We’ll assess your wound, review your medical history, and determine if HBOT is the right course of treatment for your specific condition. If it is, a personalized treatment plan will be developed, outlining the recommended number and frequency of sessions.
On the day of your session, you’ll be asked to:
- Wear comfortable clothing: You’ll typically change into a clinic-provided gown or comfortable cotton attire.
- Remove certain items: For safety reasons, you’ll need to remove jewelry, electronic devices, contact lenses, and any flammable materials or petroleum-based products. Our team will guide you through this.
- Use the restroom: Sessions can last between 90 minutes to two hours, so it’s a good idea to use the facilities beforehand.
- Discuss any concerns: Our team will be there to answer any last-minute questions and address any anxieties you might have, especially if you’re feeling a bit nervous about the enclosed space.
Enter the Chamber
Central Coast Wound Care + Hyperbarics proudly utilizes world-class, Sechrist glass (acrylic) hyperbaric chambers. These are “hard-side” chambers, offering the highest safety standards and therapeutic benefits compared to “soft-side” or inflatable chambers. The clear acrylic allows you to comfortably see your surroundings, reducing any feelings of claustrophobia.
Once you’re comfortably reclined inside your private chamber:
- Pressure Adjustment: Our trained hyperbaric technicians will gradually increase the atmospheric pressure within the chamber. This is similar to the sensation you feel when an airplane takes off or descends – you might experience a feeling of fullness or popping in your ears. Our team will guide you on techniques like swallowing, yawning, or pinching your nose to help equalize the pressure.
- 100% Pure Oxygen: Once the desired pressure is reached, you will begin breathing 100% pure oxygen. This is the core of the therapy! The increased pressure allows your body to absorb significantly more oxygen into your bloodstream, plasma, and even cerebrospinal fluid.
During Your Treatment
Each HBOT session is designed to be as comfortable and relaxing as possible. While inside the chamber, you can:
- Relax: Many patients choose to simply rest or even take a nap.
- Watch TV or Movies: Our chambers are equipped with entertainment options to help pass the time.
- Listen to Music or Audiobooks: Bring your own device (pre-approved for safety) or enjoy clinic-provided entertainment.
- Read: Catch up on a book or magazine.
Throughout your entire session, you will be continuously monitored by our expert staff. You can communicate with them at any time via an intercom system. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.
After Your Session
As your session concludes, the pressure in the chamber will be slowly and safely decreased. Again, you might feel a gentle pressure change in your ears. Once the chamber is fully depressurized, you can exit.
It’s common to feel a bit tired after your first few HBOT sessions as your body adjusts to the increased oxygen levels. However, many patients report feeling energized and rejuvenated as their treatment progresses. Our team will monitor your vital signs and overall well-being before you leave. If you have diabetes, we’ll also check your blood sugar levels, as HBOT can sometimes affect them.
What Sets Us Apart
At Central Coast Wound Care + Hyperbarics, we combine cutting-edge hyperbaric technology with personalized, physician-supervised care. Our dedicated team is committed to making your HBOT experience as effective and comfortable as possible, helping you achieve optimal healing and get back to enjoying life on the beautiful Central Coast.
Ready to learn more about how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can help you? Contact Central Coast Wound Care + Hyperbarics today to schedule a consultation.