Preparing for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Ear Clearing Techniques
Before undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a capsule-type hyperbaric chamber, it is essential for patients to clear their ears. This step helps to equalize the pressure in the ears and prevent discomfort or injury during the session. Here are two effective methods for ear clearing:
#### Method 1: The Valsalva Maneuver
- **Pinch Your Nose**: Gently pinch your nostrils closed with your fingers.
- **Open Your Mouth**: Keep your mouth open to allow air to move freely.
- **Blow Gently**: Exhale slowly and gently through your nose. You should feel a slight pressure in your ears as air is pushed into the middle ear, helping to equalize the pressure.
#### Method 2: Swallowing Technique
- **Swallow Saliva**: Begin by swallowing to engage the muscles that open the Eustachian tubes.
- **Jaw Movement**: Move your jaw back and forth, shifting it gently from side to side. This motion can also help to open the Eustachian tubes and allow air to pass through, equalizing the pressure.
Both techniques are simple and effective in preparing your ears for the pressure changes experienced in a hyperbaric chamber. Properly clearing your ears ensures a comfortable and safe hyperbaric oxygen therapy session.
Steps for Oxylab Therapy
- Entering the Monoplace Hyperbaric Chamber
Only one person can enter the capsule-type hyperbaric machine at a time, ensuring a private and controlled environment.
- Initiating Oxygen Flow
The staff will activate the flow of 100% concentrated oxygen into the machine. This will be done gradually to ensure comfort and safety as the oxygen pressure begins to rise above normal levels. You might experience a slight ringing in your ears during this process.
- Monitoring and Communication
Throughout the therapy, the staff will closely monitor your symptoms. You can communicate with the staff via a telephone or an automatic screen attached to the machine. If you feel any discomfort, you can adjust the pressure level to make the atmosphere more comfortable.
- Adjusting Posture and Activities
While in the capsule, you can adjust your posture to your comfort. You are allowed to use your mobile phone or take a nap during the session.
- Treatment Duration
Each therapy session lasts approximately 60 minutes. For optimal results, especially for post-operative hair transplant recovery, three consecutive daily sessions are recommended.
- Completing the Session
At the end of the session, the machine will gradually reduce the pressure until it matches normal air pressure.
- Exiting the Capsule
Once the pressure is normalized, you can safely exit the capsule.
- Technology and Safety
The Oxylab machine is a high-pressure oxygen therapy device developed over more than two decades using advanced Japanese technology. It is designed with a focus on patient comfort and safety.
By following these steps, you can ensure a comfortable and effective experience with Oxylab hyperbaric oxygen therapy.