FAQ on Mild Hyperbarics

Commonly referred to as HBOT, hyperbaric oxygen therapy enhances the body’s natural healing process by delivering oxygen under pressure, which increases the oxygen content in the blood, plasma, cerebral spinal fluid, and other body tissues. There are two basic types of HBOT—hard HBOT and mild HBOT. With hard HBOT, treatments are delivered in a hard-sided chamber typically at pressures greater than 1.5 ATA and using 100% oxygen. 100% oxygen is extremely flammable; therefore, hard HBOT involves managing the risk of explosion. Another concern with hard HBOT is oxygen toxicity.

While hard HBOT with 100% oxygen results in only slightly greater oxygen saturation in the tissues, many conditions respond better to mild HBOT. In clinical trials to date, there has been virtually no difference in clinical outcomes between mild HBOT and hard HBOT.

Mild HBOT refers to hyperbaric oxygen therapy at lower pressures, typically 1.5 ATA or below, and the use of an oxygen concentrator delivering 90-95% oxygen via cannula with a 40% ambient air concentration inside a chamber. Mild HBOT has no known safety risks with fire or toxicity, and it is substantially less expensive.

Links:

ABC News: Doctors Using Pressurized Oxygen Chambers in COVID Fight

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mild HBOT) delivers pressurized air and supplemental oxygen at 1.3 to 1.5 ATA inside a soft-sided chamber. At this pressure, blood and plasma carry significantly more dissolved oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Sessions typically last 60 minutes.

How is mild HBOT different from hard HBOT?

Hard HBOT uses 100% oxygen at pressures above 1.5 ATA in rigid steel chambers, typically in hospital settings. Mild HBOT uses 90-95% oxygen via concentrator at lower pressures in soft chambers. Research shows comparable outcomes for most wellness applications, with mild HBOT carrying fewer safety risks and a much lower cost.

What ATA level do Hyperbaric Pro chambers operate at?

Hyperbaric Pro offers chambers across multiple pressure levels: 1.3 ATA, 1.4 ATA, 1.5 ATA, and 2.0 ATA. The right pressure depends on your intended use. Our team can help you choose the correct ATA level for your situation.

Is mild HBOT safe for home use?

Yes. Mild HBOT chambers at 1.3 to 1.5 ATA using an oxygen concentrator have no known risks of fire or oxygen toxicity. They are designed for home use and can be operated independently by one person. Always follow the operating guidelines provided with your chamber.

How long is a typical session?

Most mild HBOT sessions run 60 minutes at pressure. Some protocols extend to 90 minutes. Pressurization and depressurization each take approximately 5 to 10 minutes, so plan for 70 to 110 minutes total per session.

How often should I use my hyperbaric chamber?

Common protocols range from daily sessions for intensive use to 3 to 5 sessions per week for maintenance. Individual protocols vary by intended use. We recommend consulting a healthcare provider to establish the right frequency for your needs.

What is the difference between 1.3 ATA and 1.5 ATA chambers?

1.3 ATA is the most widely used pressure for general mild HBOT. 1.5 ATA provides greater oxygen dissolution and is used in more intensive protocols. Both are safe for home use. If you are unsure which to choose, contact our team for guidance.

What oxygen source do I need?

Mild HBOT chambers work with an oxygen concentrator delivering 90-95% oxygen via cannula. Hyperbaric Pro chambers are compatible with standard oxygen concentrators. We can advise on compatible units for your specific chamber model.

Is mild HBOT FDA cleared?

Hyperbaric chambers for home use are FDA-registered devices. 100% oxygen hard HBOT is FDA-cleared for 14 specific medical indications. Mild HBOT for general wellness falls outside those cleared indications. All claims about specific medical conditions should be discussed with a licensed physician.

How much does a mild hyperbaric chamber cost?

Hyperbaric Pro chambers range from approximately $4,000 for entry-level 1.3 ATA models to over $10,000 for professional-grade units. Financing is available through multiple lenders for qualified buyers. Contact us or visit our financing page for options.

Can I use a hyperbaric chamber if I have a medical condition?

Certain conditions, including active ear infections, untreated pneumothorax, and some pulmonary conditions, may contraindicate hyperbaric use. Always consult your physician before beginning any hyperbaric protocol if you have an existing medical condition.

How do I get started?

Browse our chamber range by ATA level using the links below, or call our team at +1 (630) 812-7865 for a free consultation. We will help you identify the right chamber for your needs and budget.