What are the potential side effects/adverse reactions?
HBOT treatment is prescribed by a physician and performed under medical supervision. Although there are minor risks associated with any medical treatment, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is considered extremely safe. The most common side effect is ear pain, and patients are monitored closely for this. Rarely, oxygen toxicity, pulmonary barotrauma, and vision change can be experienced. The following list of potential side effects is reviewed with each patient prior to beginning therapy. Otic Barotrauma (pain in the ears or sinuses): Some patients may experience pain in their ears or sinuses. If they are not able to equalize their ears or sinuses, the pressurization will be slowed or halted and suitable remedies will be applied. Serous Otitis: Fluid in the ears sometimes accumulates as a result of breathing high concentrations of oxygen. It may occasionally feel like having a “pillow over the ear.” This disappears after hyperbaric treatment ceases and often can be eased with decongestants. Oxy
