From the Guidelines
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not recommended for asthma treatment due to insufficient evidence supporting its effectiveness and potential risks associated with its use. The current guidelines for managing asthma exacerbations, as outlined in the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Expert Panel Report 3 1, emphasize the importance of primary treatments such as administration of oxygen, inhaled β2-agonists, and systemic corticosteroids. These treatments have been proven to be effective in reducing airway inflammation and improving breathing in patients with asthma.
Some key points to consider in the management of asthma exacerbations include:
- The use of inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone and budesonide, to reduce airway inflammation
- The administration of bronchodilators, such as albuterol and salmeterol, to relax airway muscles
- The potential use of biologics, such as omalizumab and dupilumab, in severe cases of asthma
- The importance of monitoring patient response to treatment and adjusting therapy as needed
In contrast, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which has not been proven to be effective in reducing inflammation or improving symptoms in patients with asthma 1. Additionally, HBOT carries risks including ear and sinus pain, temporary nearsightedness, claustrophobia, and rarely, oxygen toxicity or lung damage. Therefore, patients with asthma should work with their healthcare providers to develop an appropriate treatment plan using evidence-based medications and strategies rather than pursuing HBOT as an alternative therapy.
From the Research
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Asthma Treatment
- There is limited research directly addressing the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for asthma treatment 2.
- Most studies focus on the use of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists for managing asthma, with no mention of hyperbaric oxygen therapy 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been explored for various applications, including hypoxic regions, and exerting antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and angiogenic properties 2.
- The potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for inflammatory and systemic maladies are being researched, but its specific application for asthma treatment is not well-studied 2.
Current Asthma Treatments
- Inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists are commonly used to manage asthma, with combination therapy often preferred for moderate to severe cases 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist in a single inhaler is considered a safe and effective treatment option for asthma management 3, 6.