Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: hope for those affected by long-COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only caused acute illnesses, but also left many affected with long-term consequences. This so-called post-COVID-19 syndrome , or long COVID, affects up to 30% of those previously infected. Symptoms such as chronic fatigue, concentration problems, sleep disturbances, and persistent pain make everyday life challenging. However, a new study published in Scientific Reports demonstrates a promising approach to alleviating these symptoms: hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) .

What is Long COVID?

Long COVID encompasses a wide range of symptoms that persist for weeks or months after a COVID-19 infection. Many affected individuals suffer from cognitive impairments such as memory and attention problems, as well as psychological complaints such as depression and anxiety. Physical symptoms such as insomnia, chronic fatigue, and diffuse pain are also common. These persistent complaints have a profound impact on the quality of life of those affected.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: An innovative solution

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a procedure in which patients breathe pure oxygen under increased pressure in a pressure chamber. This treatment improves oxygenation to tissues, promoting healing and regenerative processes in the body. While HBOT has been successfully used for other conditions such as diving accidents and slow-healing wounds, research is now investigating its effectiveness in long-term COVID-19.

The study in detail

A recently published study examined the effect of HBOT on long-COVID symptoms:

• Participants: 73 long-COVID patients whose symptoms had lasted at least three months.

• Treatment plan : Participants completed 40 sessions within eight weeks.

• Examinations : Cognitive abilities, mental health, pain perception, and sleep quality were measured before and after therapy. Additionally, brain MRI scans were performed to analyze possible structural and functional changes.

Impressive results

The study showed that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can produce significant improvements in a variety of long-COVID symptoms:

1. Cognitive functions : Patients’ attention, memory, and executive functions improved significantly.

2. Mental health : Symptoms such as depression and anxiety were significantly reduced.

3. Sleep and energy : Many patients reported better sleep and an increase in vitality.

4. Pain relief : Chronic pain, especially muscle pain, decreased noticeably.

Why does HBOT work?

The positive effect of HBOT on long-COVID can be explained by its ability to promote blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. In the study, MRI images showed that blood flow improved in brain regions responsible for cognitive and emotional functions. At the same time, HBOT promotes regeneration at the cellular level by activating anti-inflammatory processes and supporting the function of mitochondria—the powerhouses of our cells.

The neuroplastic effects of the therapy, i.e., the brain's ability to regenerate itself, are another crucial factor. This may explain why patients' cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms improved.

Hope for those affected by long COVID

The study results offer a glimmer of hope for all those suffering from the ongoing effects of COVID-19. HBOT offers the possibility of not only alleviating individual symptoms but also holistically improving the quality of life of those affected.

Conclusion

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy impressively demonstrates how modern medicine and innovative technologies can be used to overcome the challenges of long-term COVID. For many patients who have been struggling with symptoms for months or years, this represents a step back to greater health and joy in life.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-15565-0.pdf