Untreated pneumothorax
Air in the pleural cavity is the only unequivocal absolute contraindication. Raised pressure in the chamber could lead to serious complications. The condition must be treated before the therapy begins.
Safety & contraindications
HBOT contraindications
When performed correctly, HBOT is a safe therapy suitable for most people. Like any medical method, however, it has contraindications: conditions in which the therapy cannot be carried out, or has to be considered individually.
02
How we assess contraindications
Contraindications are divided into absolute and relative. An absolute contraindication means the therapy cannot be carried out under any circumstances. A relative contraindication requires individual assessment. In many cases the therapy can be undergone safely after consulting a doctor.
Before every first session we hold an initial consultation, where we assess your state of health and rule out any contraindications. If you are not sure whether HBOT is suitable for you, contact us in advance.
03
Absolute contraindications
With these conditions HBOT cannot be carried out under any circumstances.
Certain cytotoxic drugs used in chemotherapy
Some drugs used in chemotherapy are incompatible with HBOT, for example bleomycin, doxorubicin or cisplatin. If you are undergoing cancer treatment, you must discuss whether HBOT is suitable with your oncologist before the therapy begins.
04
Relative contraindications
A relative contraindication does not rule the therapy out automatically. We assess each case individually, together with your treating physician or the relevant specialist.
-
Blocked sinuses or middle ear problems
During pressurisation you need to equalise the pressure in your ears and sinuses. Clients with chronic sinusitis, a middle ear infection or Eustachian tube dysfunction may find equalising difficult. We recommend a consultation in advance. An acute cold or a blocked nose is a reason to postpone the session until the symptoms have passed.
-
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
In many cases the therapy is possible, but it requires prior assessment by a doctor.
-
Pregnancy
HBOT is not routinely recommended during pregnancy. In exceptional cases, such as carbon monoxide poisoning, it may be of benefit, but always after consulting a gynaecologist.
-
Epilepsy
A raised partial pressure of oxygen can increase the risk of a seizure in predisposed individuals. A neurologist must be consulted.
-
Claustrophobia
Time in a closed chamber can be difficult for some clients. We recommend contacting us in advance so that we can go through the options.
-
Acute respiratory illness
With an active respiratory infection we postpone the therapy until the acute phase has passed.
-
Uncontrolled internal medical conditions
For example uncontrolled high blood pressure or another serious internal condition that is not under medical supervision.
-
Previous lung surgery
Requires individual assessment based on the type and extent of the procedure.
-
Cancer
Requires a consultation with an oncologist. In some cases HBOT can form part of supportive care, but the decision rests with your treating oncologist.
05
What to do if you are not sure
If any of the contraindications listed above apply to you, discuss it first with your treating physician or the relevant specialist. Do the same if you are simply not sure whether HBOT is suitable for you. Your doctor knows your health and can assess whether the therapy is safe in your particular case. Once you have their opinion, we will be glad to see you for an initial consultation, where we set the protocol according to your indication.
Do you have questions about whether the therapy suits your health?
Disclaimer: This list is a general overview. Assessing whether HBOT is suitable in the conditions listed under relative contraindications rests solely with the relevant medical specialist. Kyslíková terapie Praha is not a healthcare facility and accepts no responsibility for assessing a client’s state of health. Always consult your own doctor.
06
Not sure whether the therapy is right for you?
Get in touch. We’ll go through what you are dealing with and recommend the best next step. No pressure, no overpromising.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9am–7pm
Message us on WhatsApp any time. We’ll reply as soon as we can.