While the use of hyperbaric oxygen chambers have grown in use outside the medical field in recent years, many people researching it for the first time have their reservations about it. Typically the first question asked is “is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?”
The answer … absolutely!
When delivered in a properly supervised environment with an expert, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is safe and effective. Of course, as with any wellness or medical therapy, there are considerations to be made, but these are always discussed with the expert running your programme.
Read on to discover the risks, side effects and myths that surround this wellness therapy.
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Before diving into the safety of oxygen chamber therapy, let’s recap what it is.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (also known as HBOT, and hyperbaric therapy) increases blood oxygen levels through time spent in a pressurised chamber.
At Elements Wellness Hubs, we use a monoplace chamber, with space for one person to comfortably lie down and relax in.
The high pressure within the chamber helps the oxygen dissolve directly into your blood which optimises recovery and health.
With this information in mind, we understand why people question how safe this therapy is.
Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Generally Safe?
As mentioned above, the short answer to the question “is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?” is yes.
Until fairly recently, this treatment was solely used in the medical field, treating issues such as decompression sickness (The Bends), carbon monoxide poisoning, and acute injuries or infections.
As the therapy has moved into the wellness space, those offering other therapies have extended their knowledge, becoming specialists in providing this therapy. This means every session you have is supervised by someone who knows what they are doing.
They will monitor air pressure levels, oxygen concentration levels and work with you to ensure the session is as safe as possible for you.
It is important to flag here that, at Elements Health Hubs, we use a particular type of chamber that is pressurised with normal filtered air, rather than oxygen rich air. You then breathe the concentrated oxygen in through a mask. This is considered a safer design and is widely regarded as having a lower fire risk compared with oxygen-filled chamber environments.
You will receive a safety briefing before your first session too. This will cover how the system works and explains the gradual pressure changes that keep you safe.
Common Side Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen chambers are incredibly safe, but the pressure and oxygen concentration your body experiences is different to that experienced as we go about our lives. So, it is only natural that you might experience some side effects.
Ear Pressure or Ear Popping
One of the most common side effects is ear pressure or popping. This is the exact same sensation you can feel in your ears when flying on a plane.
Usually, this is a temporary feeling and your ears will likely pop when the pressure rises and when it drops.
You can use similar techniques that you would use on a plane, such as swallowing, wriggling your jaw, or making a “K” sound with your tongue while pinching your nose and closing your mouth.
Mild Fatigue After Sessions
Some people report feeling slightly tired after a session. This is completely normal and is usually short-lived.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy encourages your body into a deep state of recovery and repair, so feeling relaxed or ready for an early night afterwards is not unusual.
Most people find this feeling passes quickly and many report feeling more energised later in the day or the following morning.
Staying hydrated and allowing yourself time to relax after your session can help.
Lightheadedness or Temporary Dizziness
Occasionally, some people may experience mild lightheadedness after leaving the chamber.
Again, this is usually temporary and settles quickly. Your body is adjusting back to normal atmospheric pressure, much like after a flight or a dive.
Whoever is supervising your session will guide you through entering and exiting the hyperbaric oxygen chamber slowly and safely to minimise this.
Claustrophobia or Anxiety
A common myth surrounding hyperbaric chambers is that they feel cramped or uncomfortable.
At Elements Wellness Hubs, our chamber is designed to be a calm and relaxing environment. You can comfortably lie down throughout the session, and you remain in communication with the supervisor at all times.
Many people actually use the session as an opportunity to fully switch off, meditate, listen to music or simply rest.
If you are nervous before your first session, let your supervisor know. They will talk you through everything beforehand to help you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Temporary Vision Changes (Rare)
In very rare cases, temporary vision changes can occur after frequent or prolonged use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
These changes are usually mild and reversible once sessions are reduced or stopped.
For most wellness-focused programmes, this is not something people experience, but it is still important to discuss your health history and programme goals with your practitioner before beginning treatment.
Rare Risks and Important Considerations
Serious complications from hyperbaric oxygen therapy are extremely rare, especially in wellness settings where sessions are carefully monitored and controlled.
However, as with any therapy involving changes in pressure and oxygen concentration, there are some important considerations.
Barotrauma
Barotrauma refers to discomfort caused by pressure changes, most commonly affecting the ears or sinuses.
This is why pressure inside the chamber is always increased gradually, giving your body time to adjust naturally.
Following the guidance provided by your supervisor usually prevents this from becoming an issue.
Oxygen Toxicity
Another concern people occasionally come across while researching HBOT is oxygen toxicity.
While this can occur in very high-pressure medical environments with prolonged exposure, it is incredibly rare within supervised wellness settings.
Your supervisor carefully controls oxygen concentration levels and session lengths to ensure the therapy remains both safe and effective. Our sessions are typically 60 minutes long, and we rarely (if ever) extend that.
Certain Health Conditions
There are some situations where hyperbaric oxygen therapy may not be suitable.
For example, people with certain lung conditions, severe congestion, ear infections or recent ear surgery may be advised to wait before having a session.
This is why every reputable wellness hub carries out a consultation beforehand. It ensures the therapy is appropriate for you and allows your programme to be tailored to your needs.
Who Should Avoid Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy is considered very safe for most people, there are some circumstances where it may not be recommended.
This can include people with:
- Untreated pneumothorax
- Certain respiratory conditions
- Severe colds or sinus congestion
- Specific ear conditions or injuries
- Certain medical implants or medications
If you are unsure whether HBOT is right for you, the best thing to do is speak to a qualified supervisor who can guide you safely.
At Elements Wellness Hubs, we always carry out a consultation before beginning treatment to ensure the therapy is suitable for your individual circumstances.
Common Myths About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
As HBOT becomes more popular in the wellness world, there are naturally a few myths and misconceptions that continue to circulate online.
Let’s clear some of them up.
Myth: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Is Dangerous
This is probably the biggest misconception surrounding HBOT.
When operated correctly by trained professionals, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is considered extremely safe. The therapy has been used medically for decades and modern wellness chambers are designed with multiple safety systems in place.
Myth: Hyperbaric Chambers Are Only for Divers
While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is famously associated with treating decompression sickness in divers, its use has expanded significantly over the years.
Today, many people use hyperbaric oxygen therapy as part of a broader wellness and recovery routine.
Myth: You Feel Trapped Inside the Chamber
Many first-time clients worry the chamber will feel restrictive.
In reality, most people are surprised by how calm and comfortable the experience feels. Sessions are supervised throughout, and you remain in communication with your supervisor the entire time.
Myth: More Oxygen Is Always Better
Like any therapy, balance matters.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy should always follow carefully controlled protocols. More pressure or longer sessions are not necessarily better, which is why working with experienced supervisors is so important.
Myth: HBOT Is an Instant Cure
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is designed to support recovery, wellbeing and performance optimisation.
It is not a miracle cure, and results vary from person to person depending on lifestyle, consistency and individual goals.
What Does a Safe Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Session Look Like?
If you are considering trying hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the first time, it helps to understand what the process actually looks like.
A typical session usually includes:
- A consultation and discussion about your health history
- A briefing explaining how the chamber works
- Gradual pressurisation of the chamber
- Time to relax comfortably during the session
- Gradual depressurisation before exiting safely
Throughout the session, your supervisor monitors everything closely and remains available should you need assistance.
Most people find sessions peaceful, calming and surprisingly relaxing.
How to Prepare for a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Session
Preparing properly for your session can help ensure you have the best possible experience.
We usually recommend:
- Staying hydrated before your session
- Avoiding alcohol beforehand
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Arriving feeling relaxed and unhurried
- Informing your supervisor about any medical conditions or concerns
- Following any guidance given before your appointment
Small steps like these can make your session more comfortable and enjoyable.
The Importance of Choosing a Reputable Wellness Centre
One of the biggest factors in ensuring hyperbaric oxygen therapy is safe is choosing the right provider.
A reputable wellness hub should:
- Carry out proper consultations
- Explain the therapy clearly
- Use well-maintained equipment
- Monitor sessions carefully
- Have trained and knowledgeable supervisor
At Elements Wellness Hubs, safety and client comfort are always the priority. Every session is tailored to the individual, helping ensure you feel informed, comfortable and supported throughout your experience.
Final Thoughts: Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Safe?
So, is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?
In the vast majority of cases, absolutely.
When delivered in a professional, supervised environment, HBOT is considered a safe and well-tolerated wellness therapy. Most side effects are mild and temporary, while serious complications are extremely rare.
As with any therapy, education, professional guidance and proper consultation are key.
If you are curious about hyperbaric oxygen therapy and would like to experience it for yourself, our team at Elements Wellness Hubs is always happy to answer questions and guide you through the process safely and confidently. Book a tour of our facility today.