Can I use hyperbaric oxygen therapy if I have epilepsy?

People with a history of epilepsy should consult their doctor before using HBOT, as high-pressure oxygen environments may increase seizure risk in some individuals.

Can I use HBOT if I have a pacemaker?

Individuals with a pacemaker should consult their cardiologist first. Only pacemaker models verified safe under increased pressure may be suitable for HBOT.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Contraindications: Best #1 Trusted

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications are important to understand before you book a session. Oxygen hyperbaric therapy (hbot) is widely used and generally considered safe. People of all ages can potentially benefit from the beneficial properties of oxygen. However, there are situations in which the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) is not recommended. As with any procedure, there are also hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications to be aware of before you begin treatment, and our team reviews these hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications with every new client.

People with certain chronic diseases or conditions should consult a doctor before undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) to determine if it is safe for them. The list below covers the most common hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications our team screens for at Oxymed.

Conditions Requiring Medical Consultation Before HBOT

1

Inflammation of the Paranasal Sinuses

Individuals with inflammation of the paranasal sinuses may experience increased pressure during HBOT, potentially worsening their condition. This can lead to discomfort and complications; therefore, consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

2

Acute Ear Problems

Acute ear problems, such as ear infections or severe earwax buildup, can complicate pressure equalization during treatment. This may result in pain or injury to the eardrum, making it crucial for affected individuals to seek medical advice before undergoing therapy.

3

History of Epilepsy

Individuals with a history of epilepsy may be at risk of seizures when exposed to high-pressure environments. As a precaution, it is important for these individuals to consult a doctor to evaluate the risks and determine if HBOT is suitable.

4

Treatment with Certain Drugs (e.g., Adriamycin, Cis-platinum, Bleomycin, Disulfiram)

Certain medications can interact negatively with increased oxygen levels, leading to potential complications. It is important to discuss any current medications with a healthcare provider to assess the safety of undergoing HBOT.

5

High Temperature

Patients experiencing a high fever or heat-related illnesses may not tolerate the thermal environment of a hyperbaric chamber. This condition can exacerbate the risk of heat stress, making it important to postpone treatment until the fever resolves.

6

History of Pneumothorax

A history of pneumothorax (collapsed lung) raises significant concerns regarding increased pressure in the hyperbaric chamber. Individuals with this condition should avoid HBOT unless specifically cleared by a medical professional.

7

Surgical Procedures in the Chest and Respiratory System Within Less Than 3 Years from the Date of Surgery

Patients who have undergone chest or respiratory surgery within the last three years may have lingering vulnerabilities. Increased pressure could hinder healing or cause complications, thus necessitating a thorough evaluation before HBOT.

8

Inflammation of the Optic Nerve

Individuals with inflammation of the optic nerve may risk further damage when exposed to high oxygen levels. This condition should be thoroughly assessed by a healthcare provider prior to initiating therapy.

9

Pregnancy

The effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on pregnant individuals and their unborn children are not fully understood. Therefore, pregnant women are generally advised to avoid HBOT unless deemed absolutely necessary by a healthcare professional.

10

A Pacemaker, Except for Models Verified for Safe Operation Under Increased Pressure

Individuals with a pacemaker must exercise caution, as not all devices are designed to operate safely in high-pressure environments. Consultation with a cardiologist is essential to ensure the specific model is suitable for HBOT.

11

Lung Diseases with Carbon Dioxide Retention

Patients with lung diseases that cause carbon dioxide retention should be cautious with HBOT, as increased oxygen levels may exacerbate respiratory issues. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine safety.

12

Haemorrhage

Active hemorrhage or bleeding disorders may complicate therapy and pose risks during treatment. Individuals experiencing such conditions should avoid HBOT and seek immediate medical attention.

13

Disseminated Neoplastic Disease

Individuals with widespread cancer may face increased risks associated with oxygen therapy. Consulting with an oncologist is crucial to assess the potential benefits and risks before undergoing HBOT.

14

Claustrophobia

Patients with claustrophobia may find the confined space of a hyperbaric chamber distressing. It is important to discuss this concern with a healthcare provider to explore alternative therapies or solutions.

15

Diving and Flying 24 Hours Before and After Oxygen Therapy Treatment

Individuals who have recently engaged in diving or flying may experience decompression sickness if HBOT is administered too soon after these activities. A waiting period of 24 hours is generally recommended.

16

Implanted Hearing Aid

Implanted hearing aids may not be safe in a hyperbaric environment due to pressure changes. Individuals should consult with their audiologist or healthcare provider before undergoing therapy.

17

Congenital Spherocystosis

Individuals with congenital spherocystosis may face complications during HBOT due to their condition. A healthcare provider should assess the risks and determine if therapy is appropriate.

Talk to Oxymed About Your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Contraindications

If any of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications above apply to you, don’t self-diagnose — speak with your GP and with our team before booking. Our hyperbaric oxygen therapy specialists can review your health history and confirm whether a session is safe, and independent guidance from Johns Hopkins Medicine covers the same conditions in more clinical detail. Being upfront about these hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications keeps every Oxymed session safe from the start — contact us if you’re unsure and we’ll help you check.

Most people booking an HBOT session have none of these hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications and can proceed safely, but a short screening call costs nothing and removes any doubt. We ask every new client a simple set of health questions before their first visit precisely because these hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications matter more than any other safety factor in mild hyperbaric chamber use. If you are already an Oxymed customer and your health circumstances change, let us know before your next session so we can reassess your hyperbaric oxygen therapy contraindications together.

Contraindications for Oxygen Therapy