Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining traction as an alternative protocol for certain conditions, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). But many parents are left scratching their heads and wondering if hyperbaric oxygen therapy does help autistic children. Is it all hype or could there be some truth back to the enthusiastic claims about its effectiveness? Read on to find out.
What is Autism?
Autism, also known as an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction. Children with autism may have difficulty interacting with others, may have repetitive behaviors and interests, and may have problems with sensory processing.
They may also have difficulty with language development and may have problems with social communication and interaction. Some children with autism may have intellectual disabilities, while others may be highly skilled in a particular area.
Children with autism may also have challenges with attention and with adapting to new situations. It is important to note that autism affects each child differently and the severity of the symptoms can vary widely. Early intervention and protocol can greatly improve outcomes for children with autism.
What is Hyperbaric Therapy and how does it Work?
Hyperbaric therapy, or HBOT, is a protocol that uses high levels of oxygen to treat various health conditions. During this type of therapy, the patient is placed inside an enclosed chamber and exposed to highly purified oxygen at elevated pressures. This helps to increase the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, which can aid in tissue repair and healing, help fight infection, increase the body’s ability to heal, and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, HBOT can be used for various medical conditions such as wound healing, carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness (the bends), non-healing wounds from diabetes, radiation injuries, burns, and gangrene.
HBOT works by increasing the amount of oxygen that is delivered to cells throughout the body. The higher levels of oxygen help to initiate healing processes and fight infection, allowing for improved blood flow and reduced inflammation.
How does HBOT help Autistic Children?
Promotes Learning
HBOT is an effective tool for helping autistic children learn more effectively. Studies have shown that HBOT can improve cognitive and language skills in autistic kids, allowing them to better communicate and interact with their peers. It has also been found to reduce the symptoms of autism, such as repetitive behavior, hyperactivity, aggression, and anxiety.
By increasing oxygen levels in the brain, HBOT helps to create a more relaxed environment for learning. This can lead to improved focus and concentration as well as greater comprehension. Thanks to its positive effects on cognition and behavior, HBOT is becoming an increasingly popular option for children with autism. Though further research is needed, it’s clear that HBOT is a promising tool for helping autistic children learn.
Reduces the Level of Anxiety
HBOT (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) has been seen as a great way to reduce levels of anxiety in autistic children. This method helps increase the amount of oxygen reaching cells and tissues throughout the body, improving overall well-being. Studies have found that HBOT can help to improve cognitive functioning, communication skills, and social behaviors in autistic children. HBOT has also been found to reduce levels of anxiety and improve emotional regulation in autistic children.
It is a safe and effective protocol for autism-related symptoms, and it can help to improve the quality of life for autistic individuals. Parents have seen positive results from HBOT as their child becomes more confident and socially engaged.
Improves Concentration and Focus
HBOT is a relatively new of protocol for autistic children that has been gaining traction in the medical community. This therapy involves exposing them to high levels of oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which helps with their concentration and focus. Studies have shown that it can drastically improve their overall quality of life, especially when paired with other therapeutic techniques like behavioral therapy and occupational therapy. HBOT can be an invaluable tool for families looking to give their children the best chance at success.
As with any medical protocol, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting a course on HBOT for autistic children, but the results could be life-changing for them.
Helps Build Motor Skills
HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) is a valuable aid in helping children with autism build motor skills. When a child is in an HBOT chamber, they are exposed to high levels of oxygen which can help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, both of which have been linked to improved motor skills in autistic children.
This therapy can help autistic children build the coordination, balance, and strength they need to complete everyday tasks easier. Research has also shown that HBOT can increase brain connectivity by encouraging new neural pathways in the brain which may lead to improved cognitive abilities and behavior in those with autism.
Some other Protocols for Autism
Aside from ABA, some other protocols and protocols can be used in the therapy of autism. Applied Behavioral Analysis is often combined with other forms of behavioral therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps to challenge an individual’s negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It can be a great way to help autistic people positively change their behavior.
Other therapies include the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), which helps develop communication skills through visual symbols or objects, and Social Stories, which use written stories to help individuals better understand social situations. Occupational therapy is also very beneficial as it focuses on helping people with autism develop their physical and sensory skills, as well as everyday life skills like self-care.
Speech therapy can also help individuals with autism to improve their communication abilities. All of these forms of protocol are effective in helping people with autism reach their full potential.
By combining different protocols, such as ABA and CBT, therapists can create individualized protocol plans that are tailored to each person’s unique needs and abilities.
How to keep Children Calm inside the Chamber?
Once your child has been through the initial assessment and you are ready to begin HBOT therapy, some steps can help keep autistic children calm inside the Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber (HBOT):
1. Make sure your child is comfortable: Ensure they have their favorite toys, books, or music with them so they feel more relaxed in the unfamiliar environment.
2. Familiarize them with the chamber: It’s important to explain what will happen during the session and allow your child to become familiar with the chamber before it begins.
3. Ensure they feel safe: Make sure your child knows that they are safe and that you will stay with them for the duration of the session.
4. Try reassuring mantras and distracting activities: Using calming words or phrases as well as engaging activities like singing, counting, or playing games can help keep your child calm while they’re inside the HBOT chamber.
5. Provide positive reinforcement: Praise your child during and after the session to encourage and reward a calm demeanor.
These steps can help make your child’s HBOT experience as comfortable and pleasant as possible, allowing them to reap the full benefits of their therapy.
While more research is required to understand the mechanisms of how HBOT helps autistic children, there is evidence that it does have benefits. These benefits include but are not limited to promoting learning, reducing anxiety levels, improving concentration and focus, and helping build motor skills.
If you’re considering HBOT for your autistic child, make sure to find a qualified practitioner and follow their recommended protocol. There are also some things you can do to help keep your child calm inside the hyperbaric oxygen chamber such as making sure they are comfortable, familiarizing them with the chamber, and ensuring they feel safe. With proper preparation, HBOT could be a helpful tool in managing autism symptoms.
