Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a non-invasive treatment that can benefit various conditions, from wound healing to neurological disorders. Even though it’s a straightforward process, the unknown can feel daunting for newcomers. Use this complete checklist for first-time hyperbaric users to learn how to get started and how to prepare for a session.
Begin With a Consultation
The first step is to consult your healthcare provider to determine how HBOT can benefit you. Your doctor may provide specific instructions tailored to your condition to make the therapy as effective as possible. Knowing you have professional guidance can ease any anxiety about starting the treatment.
Your healthcare provider can answer any questions you may have, offering insights into what improvements to expect. This consultation will also help specialists determine the optimal pressure levels, session frequency, and session duration for your specific health goals.
Disclose Your Medical History
Sharing relevant medical history with your physician and hyperbaric technician is crucial for a safe treatment session. Accurate medical disclosure allows for better preparation and potentially prevents complications during therapy.
Here is a list of essential information to disclose:
- Any chronic illnesses or health conditions you have been diagnosed with
- Previous surgeries or significant medical procedures
- All current medications and supplements you are taking, along with dosages
- Any allergies
- Past experiences with similar therapies, if any
- Any implants or medical devices present in your body
- Previous or ongoing respiratory issues or concerns
- Details on your smoking status and history, if relevant
Check Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for hyperbaric therapy can vary, so it’s essential to verify your plan’s specifics beforehand. Contact your insurance provider to understand whether HBOT is covered for your condition and what documentation is needed. Some insurers may require pre-authorization, so clarifying these details in advance can save you from unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Understanding your policy details will help you avoid any financial surprises and allow you to focus solely on your treatment. If your insurance covers hyperbaric therapy, ensure you have all required documentation ready before starting sessions. This preparation will streamline the process, making your treatment more accessible and less stressful.

Follow Eating and Drinking Guidelines
If you are a first-time hyperbaric user, the hyperbaric specialist will provide a complete checklist of items and activities to avoid before and after your therapy sessions. It’s important to read this information closely because it contains specific timelines for preparation and any necessary actions post-treatment.
It is recommended that people undergoing hyperbaric therapy have a light meal one to two hours before the session to avoid nausea. Eating something small and balanced, like a sandwich or salad, keeps your stomach settled without feeling too full. Avoid eating heavy, spicy, or greasy foods before your hyperbaric therapy session, as they can lead to discomfort during treatment.
Avoid the following types of drinks before your session:
- Alcohol: It may dehydrate your body and interfere with the effectiveness of the therapy.
- Caffeinated beverages: Drinks like coffee and energy drinks can increase dehydration and raise anxiety levels.
- Carbonated beverages: Sodas and sparkling waters can cause gas buildup and lead to discomfort in the pressurized environment.
- Sugary drinks: A high sugar intake could lead to fluctuations in energy levels during therapy.
Know What Not To Wear
When preparing for a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session, it’s important to avoid wearing cosmetics and hair products. These items often contain flammable ingredients that could pose a risk in the oxygen-enriched environment of the chamber. Additionally, hair products like gels, sprays, or oils can leave a residue that might interfere with the equipment or compromise safety protocols during the treatment.
You should also abstain from wearing deodorants, nail polish, and jewelry. Deodorants may contain alcohol or other substances that are unsuitable in a high-oxygen setting. Nail polish and certain types of jewelry, particularly those with metal components, can conduct heat and cause discomfort or even pose safety hazards due to the intensified pressure and oxygen levels in the chamber.
Equalize Ear Pressure
As the chamber pressurizes, the change in pressure can affect your ears, like the sensation experienced during airplane ascents or descents. The pressure changes in the ear during hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions because the external air pressure increases as the chamber pressurizes, creating a pressure difference between the middle ear and the ambient environment. This pressure difference can push on the eardrum, causing the sensation of fullness or discomfort.
Swallowing or yawning helps equalize ear pressure, making the experience more comfortable. Remember that if you need assistance during the session, the technician is there to help and will readily address any concerns or discomfort you may experience.

Relax During the Session
Hyperbaric sessions can last over an hour, so bringing materials to help you relax is beneficial. Whether it’s music, a book, or a podcast, having something engaging makes the time pass faster. Relaxation aids not only enhance your comfort but can also improve the therapy’s effectiveness by reducing stress.
You can also use relaxation techniques to make your therapy session more enjoyable. Some effective relaxation techniques to try during your hyperbaric session include deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation. These methods can help calm your mind and body, enhancing the therapeutic effects by reducing stress and tension.
Customize Your Session
Hyperbaric chambers can operate at different pressure levels to cater to varying therapeutic needs. For instance, our 1.5 ATA hyperbaric chambers for sale set the pressure at 1.5 times the normal atmospheric pressure at sea level. This increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream, enhancing the healing and therapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Additionally, depending on the chamber’s design, patients can undergo therapy sitting or lying down. A sitting chamber is typically more accessible, while a horizontal chamber can feel more relaxing for those who want to recline throughout the session.
Follow Post-Therapy Care
After completing a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session, you need to give your body time to adjust back to regular atmospheric pressure. This process may take a few minutes, during which you should sit up slowly and avoid sudden movements to prevent dizziness or light-headedness. Drinking water can help rehydrate your body and facilitate the gradual transition to normal oxygen levels, ensuring a smooth recovery from the session.
You might experience mild fatigue or temporary discomfort following therapy, which is normal as your body readjusts. It’s advisable to avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day to allow your body adequate time to recuperate. Following any post-therapy guidelines provided by your healthcare provider will help maximize the treatment’s benefits.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a non-invasive solution for various conditions, and proper preparation is essential for optimal results. By following this checklist, you can ensure a safe and effective therapy experience. From consulting a healthcare professional to completing post-session care, each step is crucial for maximizing the benefits of hyperbaric treatment.