My First 5 Days In Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber

Three lessons for the first time user

I have been starting my use of a hard-case hyperbaric oxygen chamber since 5 days ago. These are my key learnings so far on how to begin using the system.

First, it is wise to let the first-time user experience this machine for only 5-10mins for starters. This allows him or her to know what to expect, because whatever anyone may say, it is still quite a foreign experience.

For me, the build-up of pressure is most discombobulating. As the pressure builds up, I needed to continue equalizing. And it takes up to 10mins to build up the pressure.

Next thing that throws people off is the limited space within the chamber. It is better in a seated position, e.g. the airpod mild HBOT machines are quite comfortable. But I wanted more than 1.3ATA, so I ended up in a horizontal machine where you lie supine for a bit.

Second, it is good to start off with less pressure build-up. In my case, I start with 2ATA, which on hind-sight was too intense for a newbie, IMHO. I dropped down to a 1.5ATA gauge, and it has been smooth since. I did 20 mins, then 30 mins, then 40mins on 1.5ATA, and it has been smooth since.

Third and last, it can be wise to be occupied with something during even a brief 10mins in there. For example, just scrolling on the phone or reading a book really normalizes everything for me. When I tried to lie down and sleep during my first try, i only got anxious and couldn’t relax. Only on the third session did I attempt successfully to lie down and sleep.

I hope this comes in handy for you!