A healing chamber is a type of hyperbaric oxygen therapy machine used to provide patients with a high dose of oxygen at pressures significantly greater than atmospheric pressure. It is a form of alternative medicine with numerous therapeutic applications.
During a treatment session, patients sit, lie down or stand comfortably inside the chamber. An attendant fits them with specialized hoods through which they breathe pure oxygen. Sessions are typically 45 minutes to 300 minutes long. Patients can read, watch TV, and move around during their treatments. Some are able to sleep during their session, but an attendant is always available to monitor them for any signs of discomfort.
Patients who are diabetic may need to start with shorter session times. The therapy can increase blood sugar levels, so it is important to check your blood sugar often. It is also a good idea to drink water before and after the session.
Typically, a doctor will recommend 20-40 treatments over a four- to six-week period. This will be based on your specific condition, the severity of your symptoms and your health goals.
When a patient is inside the healing chamber, their ears will feel plugged. This is because the chamber raises the atmospheric pressure and the ears react in a similar way to when a person flies on an airplane. During a session, breathing deeply or swallowing can help reduce this feeling. The ear popping is a normal part of the therapy and will return to its usual state when the oxygen is released.