Arrhythmias are a common heart condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition causes an irregular heartbeat, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. While there are several treatment options available for arrhythmias, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a relatively new and promising approach that shows potential in improving heart function and reducing the risk of complications.

Exploring the potential benefits of HBOT for people with arrhythmias
One key benefit of HBOT is its ability to improve oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. The heart needs oxygen to function properly and maintain a regular rhythm. In some cases of arrhythmias, reduced blood flow or damage to blood vessels can compromise the heart’s oxygen supply, leading to an irregular heartbeat. HBOT can help by increasing the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma which can reach the heart muscle even in areas with reduced blood flow and promote a healthier heart rhythm.
People with arrhythmias can also benefit from HBOT due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many cardiovascular conditions. HBOT has been shown to reduce inflammation by modulating the immune response and decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. This can help to reduce the damage caused by inflammation in the heart tissue and promote healing, potentially contributing to a more stable heart rhythm.

HBOT can also have a positive impact on stress and anxiety, which are known triggers for arrhythmias. Living with an arrhythmia can be stressful, and stress can exacerbate the condition. HBOT has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation, improving sleep, and balancing stress hormones. This can help to lower the risk of arrhythmia episodes triggered by stress and contribute to an overall sense of wellbeing.
Another benefit of HBOT for people with arrhythmias is its ability to promote tissue healing. Arrhythmias can sometimes be caused by damage to heart tissue, such as scar tissue from previous heart attacks or other conditions. HBOT has been shown to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and promote tissue regeneration, which can help to repair damaged heart tissue and improve heart function.
What happens during hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
During a typical HBOT session, a patient enters a specially designed chamber where the air pressure is increased to higher than atmospheric pressure. The patient then breathes in pure oxygen through a mask or a hood. The increased pressure helps dissolve oxygen in the blood plasma, allowing it to reach areas of the body with compromised blood flow, such as damaged tissues or wounds, more effectively. This promotes healing by increasing oxygen delivery to cells and tissues stimulating the production of new blood vessels and boosting the immune system.

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe for people with pacemakers?
We often get asked at the clinic whether this treatment is safe for people with pacemakers and the answer is: yes, HBOT is safe for most people with pacemakers. However, consultation and permission from your cardiac specialist team before HBOT sessions commence is essential, the results of which should be shared with the hyperbaric team during your initial consultation.
Pacemakers are medical devices that are implanted in the chest to help regulate the heart’s rhythm in case of arrhythmias. They use electrical signals to keep the heart beating at a steady pace.
Arrhythmias are a type of heart condition that affects the rhythm or rate of the heartbeat. They can range from harmless irregular heartbeats to life-threatening conditions that require medical intervention. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an arrhythmia, you may be interested to know that HBOT could be a literal breath of fresh air when it comes to managing this condition.

People with pacemakers often wonder if they can undergo HBOT safely. The answer is yes, in most cases.
Most modern pacemakers are designed to be compatible with HBOT, and studies have shown that the risk of adverse effects, such as interference with the pacemaker’s function, is very low. However, it’s always important to consult with your doctor first and inform the HBOT clinic during your consultation about your pacemaker to ensure appropriate precautions are taken.
HBOT is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. Some patients may experience temporary ear discomfort or sinus pressure during the compression and decompression phases of the treatment, which can be relieved by equalising the pressure in the ears through swallowing, yawning, or using special techniques demonstrated by the HBOT clinic team.
HBOT sessions should always be carried out under the supervision of a qualified and competent professional in a reputable hyperbaric clinic. They will assess your medical history, current condition and enquire about the presence of a pacemaker, and determine if HBOT is appropriate for your specific condition.
