Last updated on 10/29/24 | First published on 10/26/24 | Literature review current through Oct. 2024
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Authors:
Kim Simonson RN-BC, ACHRN, CWS, FACCWS,
Elaine Horibe Song MD, PhD, MBA,
Topic editors:
Erin Tharalson DNP, RN, ANP-BC, CWS,
more...
Coauthor(s)
Elaine Horibe Song, MD, PhD, MBACo-Founder and Editor, Wound Reference, Inc;
Professor (Affiliate), Division of Plastic Surgery, Federal University of Sao Paulo;
Chair, Association for the Advancement of Wound Care;
Google Scholar Profile
Disclosures: Nothing to disclose
Kim Simonson, RN-BC, ACHRN, CWS, FACCWS
Disclosures: Nothing to disclose
Editors
Erin Tharalson, DNP, RN, ANP-BC, CWS
Disclosures: Nothing to disclose
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment in which the patient breathes pure oxygen under pressure. It is administered in a chamber and is the treatment for many medical and surgical conditions. It is usually part of an overall plan of care which may involve surgery, antibiotics or other therapy, but for certain conditions it may be the main treatment.
How does HBOT work?
During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, 100% oxygen is delivered in a closed chamber, and air pressure is increased to as much as 3 times normal. This causes a dramatic increase in oxygen taken in by the lungs which is then transferred to the blood. The blood then transports the oxygen to all parts of the body. The oxygen-rich blood helps improve healing and controls infection in certain conditions.
How does HBOT help my hearing loss?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may assist with improving sudden hearing loss due to a virus, inflammation, or an unknown cause (idiopathic). Treatment is most beneficial when HBOT is started within 2-4 weeks of symptom onset. All body tissues need oxygen to function. Inflamed or damaged tissue, as seen in sudden hearing loss without a clear cause, requires even more.
HBOT helps improve hearing through the use of oxygen to promote tissue healing in the ear. HBOT delivers oxygen-rich blood to the inner ear structures increasing blood flow and blood vessel growth, helping cells that fight infection, and reducing swelling.
Figure 1. Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
What should I expect from HBOT for my hearing loss?
- The number of treatments ranges from 10 to 20 times, are scheduled daily, and may change based on how your hearing responds.
- You will continue to follow up with your Ear Nose & Throat provider and audiologist.
- A repeat hearing test after 10 HBOT sessions will be conducted.
- HBO is one part of treatment for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. You may receive corticosteroids and possibly antiviral medications at the same time.
- Hearing may improve from severe deficit to slight or no impairment, enhancing your ability to recognize voices more clearly.
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