3 Reasons To Consider Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For ADD

Can I Have Your Attention, Please?

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a common condition affecting millions of children and adults. Falling under the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) umbrella, ADD is a behavioral, psychological, and neurological issue. People with ADD have trouble paying attention, poor focus, poor working memory, and impulsivity. Other symptoms include poor listening skills and difficulty staying on task. People with ADD require treatment, including medication and therapy. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is another option worth considering.

Potential causes of ADD

The causes of ADD and ADHD are still being investigated by the medical community. There is a possible link between genetics, environmental toxins, and maternal drug use. Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight may be at risk. People with epilepsy or a previous brain injury can also develop attention deficit disorder. In most cases, researchers have found differences in the chemical and neurological makeup of the brains of ADD patients. There may be a chemical imbalance, a neurotransmitter imbalance, or reduced cerebral blood flow. Furthermore, a lack of oxygen in the brain before birth and during the formative years can cause ADD to occur. The research on ADD and ADHD is ongoing, and discoveries are on the horizon.

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy a solution?

One possible treatment option is to improve oxygen levels in the blood and brain. Oxygen is necessary for the body to create new blood cells, enhance blood flow, and develop new tissue. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is one effective method to improve ADD symptoms. The therapy involves putting the patient in a room or chamber designed to release 100% oxygen under atmospheric pressure. This increases the degree of oxygenated blood in the body. Doctors believe HBOT helps with ADD, autism, PTSD, and other neurological disorders. Here are 3 benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

1. A natural, regenerative approach

An ADD diagnosis is often made in young children. The first-line treatment option is usually a medication with unwanted side effects. Some parents are concerned with medication overcompensating, taking away the child’s vigor. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more natural, enhancing the body’s healing ability. Pure oxygen improves blood flow, iron levels, and regenerative properties. The patient can re-establish neurological gaps, reducing or eliminating the signs of the condition.

2. HBOT is painless

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is simple, painless, and effective. The patient sits in a pressurized chamber or room for at least 30 minutes. In some clinics, the patient can read or watch TV during treatment. There are little to no complications, with sinus pressure or irritability within the chamber noted as the biggest concerns. Over multiple sessions, patients become accustomed to the process.

3. It helps brain metabolism

The brain has a metabolism system requiring a constant supply of glucose and oxygen. The brain needs the highest supply of these nutrients compared to the entire body. This consistent supply keeps neurons healthy and creates new ones. Studies have shown inadequate oxygen supply leads to neurological conditions and diseases, so HBOT may increase brain metabolism. For instance, a recent study showed improved function in people with Alzheimer’s disease. These patients, who were in cognitive decline, had improved concentration and recall. The same can happen for ADD patients.

A breath of fresh air

Oxygen therapy is continually pushing the bar of medical treatment. Now, HBOT is becoming more accepted in treating ADD and other neurological concerns. As a natural, painless option, HBOT could be a practical choice for reducing or eliminating symptoms of attention deficit disorder.