Week 1 – Making a First Impression
Welcome to the beginning of my HBOT journey! For the next four weeks, I’ll be sharing my experiences and insights from undergoing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Let’s dive into what HBOT is all about and my first impressions.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
In simple terms, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised environment. Inside an HBOT chamber, the air pressure is increased 2 times higher than normal, allowing my lungs to gather significantly more oxygen than they would at normal air pressure.
To give you a bit more context, the air we normally breathe contains about 21% oxygen, with the rest being mostly nitrogen and small amounts of other gases. When we inhale, oxygen molecules attach to our red blood cells (haemoglobin) and are transported throughout the body. In an HBOT chamber, the increased pressure means our lungs can take in much more oxygen, which is then circulated to our
tissues.
The Chamber Experience
Stepping into the HBOT chamber for the first time is an experience in itself. One key thing to remember is that what is said inside the chamber is always heard by the operator so, keep it clean and don’t be mean!
There are five, very comfy, seats around the chamber. Each seat has access to an individual oxygen mask. At first, it may feel daunting, but I can assure you, with help from your operator and new chamber mates you will soon settle in and become a pro at connecting and re-connecting your mask!
I’m sharing this 20-day healing journey with four other people, all committed to spending one hour a day, five days a week, for four weeks. Our goal is to find some relief from various chronic health conditions.
Once the chamber door closes, it takes about five minutes for the pressure to build up. (Week one is 16.5 feet). When you reach ‘depth’, you pop on your mask (fighter pilot mode activated) and simply breathe in and out for 45 minutes, it is literally all you have to do. It is probably worth mentioning at this point that you can breathe with or without the mask in the chamber. However, the mask is the only way
to intake the pure oxygen. The oxygen levels increase to almost 100% (99.5%), while the pressure in the
chamber rises. You notice the pressure mainly in my ears, like the sensation during a flight on an aeroplane. All you have to do is swallow or sip water. There are various ways to relieve the pressure which is in the FAQs on the website. Grahame, our vigilant operator, ensures our safety throughout the process.
After 45 minutes its time to decompress, removing the mask and have a quick chat for five or so minutes before the chamber door opens.
A Healing Community
This intensive period of HBOT sessions is akin to hitting the gym regularly to build fitness levels, followed by maintenance sessions. But unlike a gym, we get to sit, chat, breathe, read, and relax. The chamber quickly becomes a safe space, fostering heartfelt understanding among those of us facing the challenges of long-term illnesses.
What HBOT Is and Isn’t
It’s important to note that HBOT isn’t a drug therapy for a specific condition or a treatment for disease. Instead, it’s a way to deliver oxygen—a vital nutrient that every cell in our body needs for optimal function—at levels that no other method can achieve. Among us in the chamber, conditions vary widely: Fibromyalgia, Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND), Lyme Disease, Spinal Nerve Compression, and Stroke, to name a few. Each of us is hopeful that these sessions will bring some much-needed relief.
Looking Forward to Week Two
This is just the beginning of my HBOT journey. I’m eager to see how this therapy progresses and to share my experiences with you each week. Stay tuned for more insights and updates as I continue this path toward better health.
Week 2 – Interested in hyperbaric oxygen? Not sure what to expect?
As I step into the Oxygen Works in Inverness for my second week of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), I’m already feeling more accustomed to the routine and environment. The familiarity brings a sense of comfort, but the experience remains unique and intriguing. For those unfamiliar with the process, HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which can promote healing and improve various medical conditions.
Settling In: Breathing Normally
One of the most reassuring aspects of HBOT is that, despite the high-tech setup and scientific principles behind it, you just need to breathe normally. The first week had me hyper-aware of every breath, but now it feels more natural. There’s no need for any special techniques—just steady, regular breathing. This simplicity is a relief, allowing me to focus on the benefits rather than the process itself.
Passing the Time: Reading a Book
With each session lasting about an hour, finding ways to pass the time becomes essential. For me, diving into a good book has been the perfect distraction. The chamber might not be the quietest place (more on that in a bit), but the immersive experience of reading helps the time fly by. It’s fascinating how a compelling story can transport you far away, even when you’re seated in a therapeutic environment.
The Soundscape: A Symphony of Breathing
If you’re imagining a silent, meditative atmosphere inside the chamber, think again. The reality is quite different. The chamber is alive with the sound of four other people breathing in and out through their masks. It creates a unique, rhythmic symphony that’s both a reminder of the communal nature of this therapy and a bit of an acoustic challenge. The noise isn’t overwhelming, but it’s constant. It’s interesting how quickly the human mind can adapt to such an environment, allowing the sounds to fade into the background after a while.
Building Up Pressure: Reaching New Depths
One of the most exciting aspects of HBOT is the gradual increase in pressure. Each week, the pressure is built up a little more, with the goal of reaching the equivalent of 33 feet underwater. This increase is crucial for enhancing the therapy’s effectiveness. It’s fascinating to feel the slight changes in pressure week by week. There’s a bit of an ear-popping sensation initially, much like when a plane descends, but it’s manageable and soon becomes part of the routine.
Conclusion: The Journey Continues
Week 2 at The Oxygen Works in Inverness has been an engaging and positive experience. The combination of routine and novelty—breathing normally, getting lost in a book, adapting to the unique soundscape, and feeling the gradual increase in pressure—makes each session something to look forward to.
Moreover, people have started to notice small changes, such as stronger nails, improved sleep patterns, and a reduction in some bothersome symptoms. These incremental benefits highlight the therapy’s potential and make it a good suggestion to keep a diary of the little things going on. Documenting these changes can provide motivation and a clear record of progress, reinforcing the value of this intriguing journey where healing meets a touch of adventure, right in the heart of Inverness.
Week 3 – Live, Laugh, Fart (& other chamber etiquette)
As the third week of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) at The Oxygen Works in Inverness begins, the routine is becoming more ingrained, yet each session brings new challenges and rewards. This week marks a significant milestone: reaching the optimal depth of 33 feet, where the therapy’s benefits are maximised.
Reaching Optimal Depth: The 33-Foot Mark
Hitting the 33-foot mark is a notable achievement. This deeper depth is designed to enhance the therapy’s effectiveness, but it also brings a few new sensations. The increased pressure is harder on the ears, and breathing the oxygen feels a bit more laboured. However, it’s important to remember that you can breathe without the mask at any time. The mask is there purely to deliver 100% oxygen, so taking a break from it is perfectly fine and can provide some relief. Despite these new challenges, you quickly get used to the deeper depth.
Ear Popping: A Common Challenge
One of the most noticeable changes for me at this increased depth is how much more frequently my ears are popping. The pressure makes them pop a lot more, and it takes a bit longer to clear each time. It’s a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things, but it requires some adjustment. Regular yawning, drinking water, swallowing, and occasionally pinching my nose and blowing gently seem to help.
Moments of Connection: Chatting and Sharing Tips
One of the unexpected joys of this experience is the camaraderie that has developed among us ‘the deep dive five’ in the chamber. Now that we’re good at sorting out our own breathing equipment, we have a short window of time to talk to each other. These brief conversations are invaluable. We share tips on medication, life hacks, food recommendations, and even discuss the etiquette for farting in the chamber—a humorous yet necessary topic given the enclosed space.
Conclusion: Adapting and Thriving
Week 3 at The Oxygen Works in Inverness has been both challenging and rewarding. Reaching the optimal depth of 33 feet has intensified the experience, making it harder on the ears and slightly more laboured in breathing. However, the body adapts quickly, and the sense of progress is tangible. The social aspect of sharing tips and experiences with fellow participants adds a layer of support and community to the therapy.
As the therapy continues, I’m eager to see more positive changes, both small and significant. Keeping a diary of these changes remains a good practice, helping to track progress and maintain motivation. The journey through HBOT is proving to be not only a path to better health but also an unexpected adventure in human connection and resilience.
Week 4 – Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy…Unexpected Benefits
Week 4 of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) at The Oxygen Works in Inverness brought a mix of progress and a small setback. This journey continues to unfold in unexpected ways, offering both challenges and rewards.
A Temporary Setback: Dealing with a Blocked Ear
This week, I had to miss one session due to a blocked ear caused by earwax, unrelated to the chamber itself. It was a minor inconvenience, but it reminded me of how crucial ear health is in this therapy. After getting it sorted, I was back in the chamber, ready to continue the dive.
Contemplating Maintenance: The Next Phase
As we near the end of our initial block of sessions, conversations have turned to whether we should continue with once-a-week maintenance dives. The decision has been made by four of us to keep diving together weekly in July, hoping that number five will miss us so much that he returns.
Noticing Positive Changes
The small changes we’ve acknowledged are quite encouraging. Many of us have experienced better moods, improved mobility, reduced inflammation, and a dampening of chronic pain. We understand that moving into the maintenance phase is where we might notice even more significant improvements. It’s these subtle yet meaningful shifts that motivate us to keep going.
A Supportive Environment: Grahame’s Guidance
Grahame has been amazing throughout this journey, diligently watching over us and ensuring we’re all safe and happy. When my ears were bothering me, he slowed down the dive to make sure I was more comfortable, demonstrating the care and attention that makes this experience so positive.
Finding Community in Unexpected Places
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this journey, but if nothing else, I have found a super support group of people who totally understand my situation with chronic pain. The camaraderie that has developed among us ‘divers’ is invaluable. We share our experiences, tips, and even our lighter moments, creating a sense of community and understanding that is incredibly supportive.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Week 4 at The Oxygen Works in Inverness has been a testament to the resilience and adaptability required for HBOT. Dealing with a blocked ear, contemplating maintenance dives, and recognising the positive changes have all been part of this evolving experience. Grahame’s support and the newfound camaraderie among fellow divers have made this journey not just about physical healing but also about finding a supportive community.
As we move forward, I’m excited to see how the maintenance phase will further enhance our well-being. This journey continues to surprise and uplift me, and I’m grateful for the unexpected benefits it brings, both physically and emotionally.
Acknowledging The Oxygen Works Team
The Oxygen Works and all its staff and volunteers should be immensely proud of the environment they have created for people struggling with acceptance of conditions beyond their control. For a place that could be filled with the most unhappy people, it is the complete opposite. I am so glad I found this place and personally have Jenni to thank for that. The positivity, support, and care here have made all the difference in my journey.
This started of as my journey but soon became a shared story between all of us, the Deep Dive Five.
