We get questions all the time and we love them! When you have a passion for making a difference in people's health and well-being like we do at Nirvana, no question is too small or too large. We've compiled this list of most asked questions from our clients, but don't hesitate to contact us if you'd like more info or details. New technology always brings new questions and to that we say, "bring it on!"

Questions About HBOT

What is HBOT?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is an American Medical Association, Federal Drug Administration, and Medicare approved medical treatment. It is a full body treatment where the patient breaths 100% medical grade oxygen under increased pressure allowing oxygen to dissolve in the plasma at concentrations up to 1500% of normal. This enhances the body's natural ability to heal. The treatments are non-invasive, painless, safe and effective.

How does HBOT work?

• Promotes Wound healing: By supplying increased oxygen to oxygen deprived tissue new blood vessel growth is stimulated causing the wound to heal. HBOT also reduces swelling and inflammation thereby reducing pain.
• Fights Infections and often cures those that do not respond to antibiotics alone: HBOT enhances the body’s immune system enabling it to kill harmful bacteria, both aerobic and anaerobic. It also improves the effectiveness of certain antibiotics.
• Increases Stem Cell Production: HBOT has been shown to cause an 800% increase in the body’s own production of progenitor stem cells. This is very helpful for tissue healing.
• Increases Collagen Production: This is very important for wound healing, tissue repair, and to reduce scarring.

Why is the oxygen we breathe in normally not healing my condition?

The oxygen that we breathe only attaches to the hemoglobin in our red blood cells, which are 97-98% saturated with oxygen. The red blood cells are limited as to where they can flow in the body. Due to the pressurization and breathing 100% oxygen vs 21%, the oxygen dissolves into the plasma producing hyper-oxygenated blood. The oxygen then diffuses into all tissue including bone and the brain.

How do I prepare for treatment?

Certain precautions must be taken to ensure maximum safety and therapeutic benefit, and patients receive detailed information and instruction prior to their first scheduled treatment. After referral by your doctor and evaluation by a hyperbaric medical specialist, we will review our hyperbaric check list prior to entering the chamber. Patients are provided with all cotton medical attire to wear in the chamber. Prohibited items in the chamber include phones, lighters, battery powered devices or electronic equipment.

Should I eat prior to my treatment?

HBOT speeds up the body’s metabolism so it is important to have eaten within two hours of your treatment.

What will I experience during my treatment?

The treatment is painless and non-invasive. You may feel a fullness in your ears during the first ten minutes of treatment, similar to what you might experience in an airplane. Our staff will give you some easy instructions on how to avoid ear discomfort. You may watch a movie, listen to music, sleep, meditate, or just plain relax. Our chambers are some of the largest and most comfortable on the market. You will be monitored and in communication with the technician constantly. This is your time to relax and unwind.

How many treatments will I need and how long will each treatment last?

The number of treatments required will depend on your specific diagnosis or condition. Some conditions may require as few as two or three treatments and some may require 30 or more. Most treatments are for a period of 90 to 120 minutes.

Is it a problem if I miss a treatment?

Most treatment protocols for conditions covered by medical insurance are for five treatments per week. As the effects of HBOT are cumulative, it is important to not miss treatments. It is not a problem to miss an occasional treatment, but you need to be committed to your treatment program in order to achieve the best results.

Will my insurance cover HBOT?

Certain conditions are approved for treatment by most insurance companies and those are also listed under the conditions tab. Some insurance companies require prior authorization. Call to speak with our clinic director who can advise you on this process. In most cases, we will obtain the necessary authorization for you.

Are there other benefits I will notice in addition to those for my treatable condition?

As you do more HBOT sessions, your general health often improves, and you may notice the following benefits:

• Improvement in sleep patterns
• Brain fog goes away
• Ability to focus improves
• Skin glows with good health
• Aches and pains disappear or improve
• Inflammation is greatly reduced
• Energy level increases

Since I need a doctor's prescription for HBOT, what's the best way to get that done?

If you are being referred to Nirvana by your physician for hyperbaric oxygen therapy for a condition covered by medical insurance, your doctor will already have sent us a prescription. If you have made the decision yourself to begin treatment at Nirvana, we schedule an appointment with our staff medical doctor for a thorough evaluation to make sure that HBOT is right for you and then our doctor will write the prescription.