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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO2) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Sep 28, 2023 | Hyperbaric Chamber Education Archives, Hyperbaric Research

hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy-hbo2-and-chronic-fatigue-syndrome

Imagine being trapped in a body that constantly feels drained, robbing you of the ability to lead a fulfilling life. This is the reality for individuals battling Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a debilitating condition that impacts not only physical health but also one’s social and family life. Despite its significant toll, there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for CFS. But what if there’s a glimmer of hope in the form of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO2)?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

In a groundbreaking study, researchers sought to unveil the potential of HBO2 therapy in managing CFS. Sixteen brave patients, all diagnosed with CFS based on the Fukuda criteria, embarked on a journey toward renewed vitality. The treatment plan? Fifteen sessions of HBO2 therapy, spread over three consecutive weeks, with sessions five days a week. The goal was to assess whether this therapy could bring relief and transform lives.

Promising Results

The results were nothing short of remarkable. HBO2 therapy proved to be not only safe but also well-tolerated, with no complications reported. More importantly, it triggered significant improvements in patients’ lives. Here are some key findings:

  1. Visual Analog Fatigue Scale (VAFS): Before the treatment, patients grappled with the weight of fatigue. But after completing the 15 sessions of HBO2 therapy, their scores on the VAFS showed remarkable improvement.
  2. Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS): The FSS is a vital measure of how CFS affects one’s daily life. Following HBO2 therapy, patients experienced a notable decrease in the severity of their fatigue.
  3. Fatigue Quality of Life Score (FQLS): CFS can cast a shadow over the quality of life, making even simple joys seem distant. However, after the treatment, patients reported significant enhancements in their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

In the battle against CFS, every breakthrough, no matter how small, brings renewed hope. As we eagerly await more studies, it’s heartening to know that there may be a new ray of hope for those suffering from this challenging condition. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, with its transformative potential, could be a beacon of light guiding individuals with CFS toward a brighter, more vibrant future.

Source

Akarsu, S. (2013, March 1). The efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the management of chronic fatigue syndrome. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23682549