Every morning, MS greets me like a shadow I can’t escape—fatigue, pain, and brain fog turn simple tasks into Herculean efforts. Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) means grappling with these constant companions. Since diagnosis, I’ve started exploring different MS treatment options, from traditional medications to innovative MS treatments and everything in between, and I am still searching for more.
A fellow fighter shared his HBOT experience. He described how hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) helped with his brain fog, something I struggled with daily. His story stuck with me. Spending hours in a pressurised oxygen chamber felt surreal, almost like science fiction. But after so much disappointment, I was willing to try anything that might improve my MS quality of life.
I leapt at the opportunity to try something new and tested. The financial, physical, and emotional risks felt outweighed by the possibility of reclaiming a piece of myself. What followed was a journey filled with surprises, challenges, and hope.
This is my MS journey—the highs, lows, and moments that changed everything—and how and when I decided I wanted to raise awareness of MS and share these gems with everyone. If you’re exploring alternative MS therapies or considering HBOT for multiple sclerosis, I hope my experience offers clarity and inspiration.
Table of Contents
What is HBOT and Why I Decided to Try It
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment where you breathe pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. Initially developed for wound healing, it has recently gained attention for its potential in neurological healing. For people with MS, early research suggests that HBOT may reduce inflammation, promote cellular repair, and enhance brain function. These effects could help with MS symptom management, addressing issues like MS fatigue improvement, pain, and cognitive fog.
At first, I was sceptical. Could breathing oxygen in a chamber help? After some time of trying traditional medications with little progress, it sounded too simple. But hearing a fellow MS warrior account of—his brain fog lifting—gave me hope.
Yes, the cost and time commitment were intimidating. Daily oxygen chamber sessions, each lasting 90 minutes over five weeks, demanded much sacrifice. But the promise of a real breakthrough in my multiple sclerosis management made it worth the risk.
My First Day: Nerves and Expectations
Walking into the centre, I felt equal parts nervous and hopeful. This wasn’t just a new treatment—it felt like my last shot at living beyond constant MS fatigue and brain fog.
The chamber itself looked nautical and pod-like, almost intimidating. Would I feel claustrophobic? Would I even notice results? The technician explained the process and walked me through handling the ear-popping sensation as the pressure increased, like being on a plane. Strange, but manageable.
As the session began, I reminded myself of the stakes: MS had stolen so much—my energy, my focus, my independence. This treatment felt like a chance to reclaim what I’d lost. There were no instant fireworks that first day, but something flickered inside me—hope. Maybe this was the beginning of something transformative.
The Daily Routine: Inside the Oxygen Chamber
Over five weeks, I committed to daily oxygen chamber sessions. After a few sessions, the initial discomfort—ear-popping and pressure changes—became routine. To pass the 90 minutes, I listened to audiobooks, meditated, or rested. These moments in the chamber became an unexpected oasis in my otherwise chaotic life with MS.
Breathing pure oxygen felt like breathing life back into my body. It wasn’t dramatic but felt purposeful, like planting seeds that would grow over time. I reminded myself that oxygen therapy benefits take patience. Healing rarely happens overnight; it’s about showing up, trusting the process, and letting your body do the work.
Week by Week: Tracking My Progress
The clinic staff encouraged me to keep a diary, and I’m glad I did. Reflecting on my progress helped me appreciate even the most minor wins. Here’s how my journey unfolded:
- Week One: Nothing major. My body was adjusting, and I felt no significant shifts. Still, I kept showing up.
- Week Two: Subtle changes appeared, such as less severe post-exertion crashes and slightly improved stamina.
- Week Three: The fog lifted. Conversations no longer felt like puzzles, and reading became more accessible.
- Week Four: The relentless chronic pain in my legs eased into something more manageable.
- Week Five: Energy levels soared. For the first time in years, I wasn’t just surviving—I was living.
These small victories added up. I realised that progress doesn’t always announce itself loudly, but when you take the time to look, it’s there.
Unexpected Challenges and How I Overcame Them
The benefits of HBOT were real, but the process was challenging. Daily oxygen chamber sessions disrupted my routine, requiring time, energy, and constant adjustments. I reminded myself that this was an investment in my health that would pay off long after the inconvenience faded.
The ear discomfort during the first sessions was sharp enough to make me second-guess everything. Chewing gum and using earplugs helped. Another surprise? Fatigue after some sessions felt counterintuitive for something designed to improve energy. I learned to adapt, scheduling sessions earlier and carving out time to rest afterwards. Healing isn’t linear; it’s about meeting setbacks with patience and persistence.
The Physical and Mental Changes I Experienced
By week five, I saw remarkable changes. Exhaustion had dictated my life for years, but now I could walk farther, enjoy social outings, and tackle full days without feeling drained.
The cognitive improvements were equally life-changing. The brain fog that had stolen my clarity, turning conversations into struggles, was gone. I felt like myself again—sharp, focused, and present for the first time in years.
These shifts weren’t just physical; they were mental and emotional. HBOT for autoimmune diseases like MS isn’t a cure, but it gave me hope—a powerful ripple effect that improved my energy, mood, and outlook on life.
Life After HBOT: What’s Changed?
Finishing the oxygen chamber protocol was transformative. My energy and focus improved dramatically, and while pain relief wasn’t complete, it became manageable enough to reduce my reliance on medication.
To sustain these changes, I’ve paired HBOT with complementary MS therapies like physical therapy and mindfulness. I also plan to continue periodic oxygen therapy sessions as needed. Progress is only sometimes permanent, but I’ve learnt that persistence and the right tools can yield accurate oxygen therapy results.
Advice for Others Considering HBOT for MS
If you’re exploring HBOT for neurological conditions or MS, here’s what I’d recommend:
1. Start with a consultation. Seeing the chamber and asking questions eased my nerves and clarified my goals.
2. Set realistic expectations. Healing takes time. Trust the process and celebrate small wins along the way.
3. Track your progress. A journal can reveal subtle improvements you might otherwise overlook.
HBOT isn’t a magic bullet, but for me, it became a vital part of my MS treatment options puzzle.
Conclusion
Living with MS is a lifelong battle, but HBOT gave me something I hadn’t felt in years: hope. It’s not a miracle cure but a powerful tool that helped me reclaim energy, clarity, and control over my life. MS may shape our paths, but with persistence and the right treatments, we can regain parts of ourselves we thought were gone.
Have questions about HBOT or want to share your oxygen therapy testimonial? Reach out to me at amanda@msvoices.com. I’d love to hear your story and share more of mine. As MS warriors, we can navigate this unpredictable journey and uncover new possibilities. You can find the place I went for HBOT here: https://www.msaction.org.uk/therapy/oxygen-therapy. Unfortunately for me, MS Action are moving to a new centre, so I’ll have to find an alternative, but I hope that this can help some other MS Warriors out there.
FAQS
Q: What is HBOT?
HBOT stands for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, a treatment where you breathe pure oxygen in a pressurised room.
Q: How long does each HBOT session last?
Typically, each session lasts about 90 minutes.
Q: Are there any side effects of HBOT?
Some people may experience ear discomfort, temporary vision changes, or fatigue after sessions.
Q: How soon can you see results from HBOT?
Results vary, but I noticed slight improvements in the second week.
Q: Does insurance cover HBOT for MS treatment?
Often, HBOT is covered by something other than MS insurance. Check with your provider for specifics.
Q: Can HBOT cure MS?
No, HBOT isn’t a cure for MS, but it may help manage some symptoms.
Q: How many HBOT sessions are typically recommended?
This varies, but my treatment plan was for five weeks of daily sessions.
Q: Is HBOT safe for everyone with MS?
While generally safe, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor to determine if HBOT is right for you.
Q: What should I bring to an HBOT session?
Comfortable clothes and something to keep you occupied, like audiobooks or music.
Q: Can I continue my regular MS medications while doing HBOT?
Usually, yes, but always consult with your neurologist about your specific medication plan.
Citations – Defying MS: My 5-Week Oxygen Chamber Experience
Disclaimer
The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions regarding Multiple Sclerosis or your health.
Personal experiences shared here are subjective and may not reflect everyone’s journey with MS. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of the information provided.
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