By Liz Liokumovich

As more people are becoming aware and receptive to alternative health modalities than ever before, new demands for these are increasingly more popular and have become more accessible as supplemental forms of treatment. One such modality is the use of the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, or HBOT. For many years now, I have heard about the amazing benefits of using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy from various sources, as well as hearing about celebrity athletes having these chambers in their homes and major hospitals using them for wound healing.

I was thrilled when I received a call to try out HBOT. Dr. Green of Greenville Hyperbaric Center gave a thorough explanation of this type of therapy. I was amazed to learn that HBOT has an effect on stem cell activity. When inside the pressurized oxygen chamber, the body’s cells are able to absorb more oxygen, sending it into all the body’s fluids, blood, plasma, and cerebral fluids. This can help improve brain function, strengthen the respiratory system, and even build resiliency to viruses such as COVID. There are so many interesting benefits to HBOT, I just couldn’t wait to try it! As with many other therapies, it takes more than once to see complete long-term effects, but I also knew there were benefits on a molecular level even with one session.

To my surprise, I was told I can bring a friend, and both of us can enjoy the benefits of HBOT at the same time in the same pressurized chamber. Dr. Green had the deflated chamber set up really nice inside, with plenty of blankets and pillows to keep us comfortable and cozy, plus a few bottles of water. As she zipped us up, I was starting to get a little bit nervous not knowing what to really expect from my body. As the pressure started changing, the drinking water sure came in handy! You have to start drinking, swallowing, or chewing gum to help the pressure in your ears balance out since we are dealing with pressure change. That was the most physically uncomfortable part for me because I have sensitive ears, but it only lasted maybe three minutes. Once the desired pressure was reached, all of that ear pressure stabilized and felt normal. 

My friend and I lounged and hung out in the chamber for an hour. If you’re not as lucky as me and can’t bring a friend, you can still occupy yourself with any kind of reading material, including your cell phone (just make sure it’s charged). During the time spent inside the chamber, I did not feel any evident effects. When it was time to deflate the chamber, we needed to balance out ear pressure again by drinking, swallowing, or chewing gum. 

Following our departure and going back home, I definitely noticed a spike of energy, increased mental focus, and a feeling of positivity. This good mood effect alone was enough to really impress me. I’m so glad I finally tried this out, and I look forward to going back to Dr. Green again. Now remember this, friends–use the bathroom before you enter the chamber because you will be drinking and won’t be able to come out for an hour!  

A big ‘Thank You’ to Dr. Green and team, and my friend who kept me company. 

Greenville Hyperbaric is located at 1109 S Church St. in Greenville. For more information, call 828-375-0002 or visit: GreenvilleHyperbaric.com.

Liz is a wife and homeschooling mom of four by day, and a self-proclaimed “Research-Hawk” by night. She’s looking forward to discovering more natural therapies to keep her life in balance.