Unfortunately, post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD is not uncommon for military veterans, especially those who have experienced combat. Undergoing high stressful situations on a consistent basis can severely damage the brain over time leading to both traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD. This leads to depression and a low quality of life especially for those dealing with life after the military. However, an unconventional yet effective way of treating PTSD seems to be emerging more into the light of the medical world.
What is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks of traumatic events, avoidance of trauma reminders, sleep disturbances and persisting dysregulation of stress responses. According to the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs, at least 7 out of 100 veterans (7%) will experience PTSD. This is serious because most of the veterans that are suffering from PTSD have either attempted or have successfully committed suicide. Currently the only way to treat PTSD include trauma focused psychotherapy and medications.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves inhaling 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized environment which enhances the amount of oxygen dissolved in the tissues. This combination of hyperoxia and hyperbaric pressure leads to substantial improvement in tissue oxygenation while also targeting various oxygen and pressure-sensitive genes which results in both anti-apoptotic (cell death) and anti-inflammatory effects. This consequently improves mitochondria metabolism and ultimately cell function.
How does HBOT help to treat PTSD?
Simply put, the increased oxygen of HBOT on the brain:
- Heals damaged brain tissues
- Improves blood flow
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes growth of new tissue and blood vessels
HBOT has been studied numerous times in patients post-stroke and those who have suffered traumatic brain injury (TBI) which is often combined with PTSD symptoms. However, there are currently no studies with just PTSD diagnosis alone.
Although HBOT seems as though it may be a new, ground-breaking experimental treatment, it has actually been around for almost a century and pre-dates World War II, as it is used for other conditions as well. The U.S Department of Veterans Affairs have approved and will pay for HBOT treatment for those who suffer from TBI and PTSD who have failed or seen little benefit from traditional treatment methods.
If you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD, talk to your provider today to discuss options on treatment. Traditional methods of psychotherapy and medications might work for some, but HBOT may be able to provide the most significant benefits with little to no side effects. Here is a resource for those veterans currently suffering from PTSD and TBI that are interested in HBOT.
On behalf of Pharmacist Consult, we just want to say thank you to those who have served or currently serve in the military and also to those who work beside them as either civilians or contractors. We appreciate everything you all have done and continue to do for the country!
Reference:
- Martinez, M. (2023, February 14). Navy seals undergo groundbreaking treatment for PTSD, traumatic brain injuries in the villages. WESH. Retrieved March 11, 2023, from https://www.wesh.com/article/hyperbaric-oxygen-ptsd-treatment-florida/42858773
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