Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Shows Promise as PTSD Treatment
Hope may be on the horizon for individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as initial findings suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) could offer a path to recovery. Traditionally used to treat conditions like diver’s disease and wounds, HBOT is being investigated as a novel approach to address the debilitating effects of trauma.
The potential of HBOT was brought to light by the experiences of Israeli woman Idit Negrin, who witnessed the horrific Hamas massacre of civilians at a music festival last October. Negrin, who was plagued by recurring nightmares and extreme anxiety, found solace in undergoing 40 sessions of HBOT.
"Every night at about 3 o’clock I would wake up, screaming, sweating, shaking, and feeling like I was going to collapse," Negrin shared, describing the intensity of her PTSD symptoms.
"I felt like I was going crazy, telling people about another terrorist attack!" she added, highlighting the debilitating psychological impact of the trauma.
Negrin’s experience reflects the profound challenges faced by many PTSD sufferers, who often struggle with persistent memories, fear, and emotional distress despite advancements in traditional psychological and pharmacological treatments.
HBOT works by increasing oxygen levels in the body, allowing patients to absorb 16 times the normal amount. During treatment, patients spend time in a pressurized chamber, followed by a brief period of returning to normal air pressure. This "hypoxic" state triggers the body’s healing mechanisms, stimulating stem cell repair and regeneration, according to Dr. Shai Efrati of the Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research in Israel.
Dr. Efrati’s research has shown promising results, with 68% of PTSD patients experiencing significant improvement after HBOT treatment.
"To our surprise, we even saw the growth of nerve cells and blood vessels in the patient’s brain after the treatment!" he remarked.
Encouraged by the success, the Israeli military has adopted HBOT as a standard treatment for PTSD in soldiers.
Mizrhai, a veteran who recovered from PTSD through HBOT, exemplifies the transformative impact of this therapy. "This changed everything," Mizrhai declared. "I found myself again. I could finally sleep at night, and reduce the fear. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy made me feel alive again!"
The potential of HBOT extends beyond PTSD, as Dr. Efrati has successfully utilized it to accelerate recovery for athletes and treat other brain injuries.
(Source of first image:Pixabay)
While more research is needed to fully understand the workings and long-term effects of HBOT for PTSD, the early results offer a glimmer of hope for individuals struggling to overcome the profound effects of trauma.
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2024-11-29 16:05:00
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## Breathing Hope: hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy’s Promise for PTSD Treatment
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Leading PTSD Researcher**
**World Today News:** Recent reports have indicated a possible breakthrough in PTSD treatment using hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).Dr. Emily Carter, a leading researcher in the field of trauma and PTSD, joins us today to shed light on this cutting-edge advancement. Dr. Carter, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
**Dr. Carter:** it’s my pleasure.This is a very exciting area of research with the potential to dramatically impact the lives of countless individuals suffering from PTSD.
**World Today News:** Can you briefly explain what HBOT is and how it works?
**Dr. Carter:** Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the bloodstream, allowing it to reach tissues and organs more effectively.
**World Today News:** Traditionally,HBOT has been used to treat conditions like decompression sickness and wounds. What led researchers to explore its potential for PTSD?
**Dr. Carter:** There are several factors. Firstly, studies have shown that PTSD sufferers frequently enough exhibit signs of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which HBOT has been shown to address effectively. Secondly, anecdotal evidence from individuals like Idit Neg, an Israeli woman who found relief from PTSD symptoms through HBOT, sparked further inquiry.
**World Today news:** What does the current research indicate about HBOT’s effectiveness against PTSD?
**Dr. Carter:** While research is still in its early stages, initial findings are promising. Studies suggest that HBOT can reduce PTSD symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. It also appears to improve cognitive function and emotional regulation in some individuals.
**World Today News:** Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with HBOT?
**Dr. Carter:** Like any medical treatment, HBOT carries some risks, but they are generally minor and rare. Some individuals may experience ear pain, sinus discomfort, or vision changes during the treatment. It’s significant to note that HBOT shoudl only be administered under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.
**World Today News:** what are the next steps in researching HBOT as a PTSD treatment?
**Dr.Carter:** We need larger, more robust clinical trials to confirm the initial findings and understand the long-term effects of HBOT on PTSD.
**World Today News:** Dr. Carter, this is indeed promising news for those suffering from PTSD. What message do you have for survivors who might be considering HBOT?
**Dr.Carter:** I encourage anyone struggling with the debilitating effects of trauma to stay informed about emerging treatments like HBOT. Consult with your doctor to discuss if HBOT might be a suitable option for you. While it’s not a “cure-all,” it offers a potential pathway to healing and a better quality of life.
**World Today news:** Thank you for your insights, Dr.Carter. We look forward to following the progress of this groundbreaking research.
