We’ve all experienced inflammation at some point, maybe a swollen ankle after a twist, or redness around a healing cut. Inflammation is your body’s built-in alarm system, signalling that it’s time to repair and protect itself. But while short-term (acute) inflammation is essential for healing, chronic inflammation can quietly chip away at your health if left unaddressed.
Here’s how to recognise the signs, understand what’s happening inside your body, and explore natural solutions, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and red light therapy (RLT), that could help you get back to feeling your best.
What is inflammation, really?
Inflammation is your immune system’s way of responding to injury, infection, or irritation. In the short term, it’s incredibly useful – your body sends extra blood, oxygen, and immune cells to the affected area to help it heal.
The problem starts when inflammation becomes long-term. Chronic inflammation has been linked to fatigue, ongoing pain, slower recovery, and a higher risk of certain health conditions.
Signs of inflammation you shouldn't ignore
Your body is always communicating with you – sometimes subtly, sometimes not so much. Signs of inflammation can include:
- Persistent fatigue (even after a good night’s sleep)
- Ongoing joint or muscle pain without clear injury
- Swelling in hands, feet, or other areas
- Digestive issues such as bloating, discomfort, or changes in bowel habits
- Frequent headaches or brain fog
- Recurring infections or slow healing wounds
- Redness, heat, or tenderness in specific areas of the body
If you’ve noticed these symptoms hanging around for weeks or months, it may be worth taking a closer look at what your body is trying to tell you.
How HBOT can support your body
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy works by delivering oxygen at higher-than-normal atmospheric pressure, helping more oxygen dissolve into your blood plasma. This increased oxygen availability can:
- Help reduce swelling and inflammation
- Support the body’s natural healing processes
- Improve circulation to injured or stressed tissues
- Promote faster recovery from illness or injury
For people dealing with stubborn inflammation, HBOT can be a supportive, non-invasive option to enhance the body’s ability to repair and restore balance.
How RLT can help calm inflammation
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to reach deep into your tissues. This light energy is absorbed by your cells and can help:
- Stimulate ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) production — the energy currency of your cells
- Reduce oxidative stress and support a healthier inflammatory response
- Promote collagen production and tissue repair
- Soothe muscle and joint discomfort
Because RLT works at a cellular level, it can be particularly beneficial for chronic pain, recovery, and skin health.
Inflammation is a sign that your body is actively working to protect you – but it’s not something you should ignore when it lingers. Listening to these signals, making healthy changes, and exploring supportive therapies like HBOT and RLT can help you feel energised, balanced, and ready to live life fully.
At HybO2 House in Winchester, we offer both HBOT and full-body Red light therapy sessions in a calm, supportive setting. If you’ve been noticing signs of inflammation and want to explore how these therapies could fit into your wellness routine, our team is here to guide you.