Don’t Suffer in Silence: Treat Radiation Side Effects with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Radiation therapy is a commonly used treatment for cancer that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. While it can be highly effective in destroying cancer cells, it can also cause long-term side effects that appear 6-12 months later, known as late effects of radiation. These effects can include damage to healthy tissues, scarring, and even the development of secondary cancers. Fortunately, there is a way to alleviate some of these side effects: hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
Late Effects of Radiation for Breast Cancer Patients
Breast cancer patients are among those who may experience late effects of radiation. These effects can include skin damage, lymphedema, and damage to the lungs, heart, or other organs in the chest. Skin damage can manifest as dryness, itching, redness, and peeling, and can sometimes lead to wounds that take a long time to heal. Lymphedema is swelling in the arms or legs that can occur when lymph nodes are damaged or removed during cancer treatment. It can be uncomfortable and even disabling, and can lead to infections if left untreated.
Hope Can Be Found With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).
HBOT is a type of therapy that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can promote healing and help damaged tissues recover. HBOT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including radiation-induced tissue damage. It can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. In breast cancer patients, HBOT has been shown to help reduce skin damage & discoloration, alleviate lymphedema, and even improve lung function. While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is most effective when started before surgery or immediately thereafter, you can get started at a time to see the effects of this life-changing medicine.
Getting Started With HBOT
If you have undergone radiation therapy and are experiencing the late effects of radiation, you don't have to suffer in silence. HBOT is a safe and effective treatment that can help alleviate some of the most common side effects of radiation. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if HBOT is right for you, and take the first step towards feeling better and improving your quality of life or visit Hyperbaric Aware to find a treatment center near you.
With the rise in popularity amongst celebrities for the personal use of HBOT it is important to note that not all hyperbaric chambers and treatments are alike, or safe.
Currently treating the late effect of radiation is approved only when administered in hard-sided medical-grade chambers, capable of sustaining pressure of 1.5-5.0 ATA. If you are looking to get started with HBOT to treat the late effects of radiation it is important to do your research to ensure the best possible results.