The article discusses the growing popularity of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a wellness treatment, but also highlights concerns about its safety and lack of regulation. HBOT is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to promote healing and relaxation. However, some critics argue that it is being marketed and used as a self-care treatment, rather than a medical treatment that requires a doctor's prescription.
The article cites several examples of unregulated HBOT facilities and practitioners who are not following safety protocols or providing adequate training for their staff. It also highlights the lack of regulation from government agencies, such as the FDA, which has been criticized for not doing enough to protect consumers.
Some experts quoted in the article argue that HBOT is a valuable treatment when used properly by trained medical professionals, but others are more skeptical. One expert notes that soft-sided chambers, which are often used in unregulated facilities, can be hazardous and should only be used in hospitals or other controlled environments.
The article also mentions lawsuits against HBOT providers who have been accused of negligence or violating safety protocols. However, these cases do not provide broad protection for consumers, and more needs to be done to regulate the industry.
Overall, the article suggests that while HBOT may have some benefits as a medical treatment, its popularity as a self-care treatment is likely to lead to more harm than good if it is not regulated properly.
The article cites several examples of unregulated HBOT facilities and practitioners who are not following safety protocols or providing adequate training for their staff. It also highlights the lack of regulation from government agencies, such as the FDA, which has been criticized for not doing enough to protect consumers.
Some experts quoted in the article argue that HBOT is a valuable treatment when used properly by trained medical professionals, but others are more skeptical. One expert notes that soft-sided chambers, which are often used in unregulated facilities, can be hazardous and should only be used in hospitals or other controlled environments.
The article also mentions lawsuits against HBOT providers who have been accused of negligence or violating safety protocols. However, these cases do not provide broad protection for consumers, and more needs to be done to regulate the industry.
Overall, the article suggests that while HBOT may have some benefits as a medical treatment, its popularity as a self-care treatment is likely to lead to more harm than good if it is not regulated properly.