Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy conduced in a personal hyperbaric chamber has provided to deliver positive results in the cases of patients suffering from chronic illnesses like autism, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, air embolism, cerebral palsy, ulcers, diabetes and a variety of other debilitating physical conditions that can be caused by limited oxygen supply to the different parts of the body. A patient suffering from any of these situations can undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy under the strict guidance of a physician and trained test administrators.
This therapy is conducted by making the patient lie down, or sit in an acrylic chamber, the pressure inside which is gradually increased by the administration of pure oxygen. While a personal hyperbaric chamber or monoplace chamber can be used in residences and do not require trained professionals to be handled, multiplace chambers are designed to accommodate more than one patient at a time for simultaneous treatment. Personal hyperbaric chambers are safe and have adequate fire precaution measures that are implemented into its design. However, before investing in one, it is better to ensure that it has certain accessories that facilitate in the patient's comfort. Here is a list of some such items.
Air-Conditioner
An air conditioner plays an important role in effective ventilation of a hyperbaric chamber. Not only does it reduce the thermal reading of the air that is flowing into the chamber by almost 40 degrees, but also controls the level of humidity within it by decreasing the water content in the atmosphere. Moreover, the motor operates quietly, and is not a source of disturbance to the patient.
Cleaner
An oxygen cleaner with a rust inhibitor can be used in the case of oxygen products that are kept under high pressure. The cleaner is made primarily for industrial use and is non-toxic in nature. It is also biodegradable.
Cooler
This particular cooler is customized for use in Dives. It helps in decreasing the incoming air's temperature by almost 30 degrees. It also minimizes the water content within the chamber, thereby preventing patients from feeling uncomfortable with the rising humidity levels. The best part is that it does not require any external source of energy, or electricity to function properly. All that needs to be done for these filters to operate is that they should be filled with ice and water on a regular and timely basis.
Silencer / Cooler
This is a relatively new accessory, and is a combination of the silencer and cooler. It is a small and lightweight device that is attached between the speaker and compressor. It helps to minimize the noise level of the inflating air stream and reduce its high temperatures as well. It is a simple device that greatly enhances the comfort level of the patients.
Disinfectant
Microban is a highly concentrated disinfectant that helps in killing HIV-1 and MRSA bacterias. It has properties of a fungicide, mildewstat, bactericide, and virucide all put together in one concentrated mixture, and is very effective for maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene in a hyperbaric chamber.
Ear Plugs
The fluctuating pressure levels during the process of compressing and decompressing a hyperbaric chamber may cause much discomfort to some patients. It is for them that this particular accessory has been designed. These ear plugs have an in-built pressure regulator that can alter the sensations in the ear according to the changing pressure flows in the system. These are generally worn all through a session and even for 15 minutes after it is over. They greatly reduce and control the impact of pressure change that is experienced by the middle ear. These plugs are also disposable, or can be worn for four consecutive sessions before being discarded.
Equalizer
These devices are also used to normalize the pressure in the middle ear, specifically by using air. They are used prior to the session to ensure that the ear can adjust normally to the compression and decompression of the chamber. In other cases, equalizers are used after a session to assist the patient's ear to regain its normal balance, and thenby reduce the feeling of discomfort. These are generally prescribed by the doctor and are available in both multiplace and monoplace chambers.
Grab Bar
This is a customized bar that is simple to install and use. It is designed to assist patients in entering and leaving chambers. Grab bars are generally made of aluminum that has a fine coating of powder.
Lubricants
These are essential for lubricating the zippers of personal hyperbaric chambers and ensuring their smooth functioning. Lubricants such as ZipTech help in this purpose. It is important that the zippers function smoothly to minimize the risks of accidents and mishaps.
Oxygen Concentrators
The percentage of oxygen in ambient air is 21%. When it is compressed in a portable hyperbaric chamber with the pressure ranged between 1.3 to 1.5 ATA, then the percentage increases to 27%. By using a mask and a concentrator, patients can inhale 95% oxygen. However, the right to use concentrators is not granted to every brand of personal hyperbaric chambers by the FDA. Here, it is best to conduct a survey of models with this particular accessory and check on the permission of the company to avoid any legal issues that may occur after purchasing an unauthorized model.
Platforms
Platforms assist in the movement process into and out of the chamber. Moreover, there is ample room benefit them for the accommodation of the compressor. These are generally made of aluminum with a powdered layer. The platforms often have rails and steps that facilitate the movement.
Pulse Oximeter
This device has been approved by the FDA and is used to measure the level of oxygen in the blood before and after a particular session in hyperbaric chamber. It is a fingerertip pulse-oximeter that has a neck strap, carrying case and double pack of triple A batteries.
While choosing a personal hyperbaric chamber, therefore, it is important to pay heed to these additional accessories as they greatly facilitate in patient comfort and safety.