The “Glossary of Terms” section provides definitions and explanations of key terms and concepts related to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This section is designed to help readers better understand the technical language and specific terminology used throughout the science and practice of HBOT.

A

• Atmospheres Absolute (ATA): A unit of pressure used in hyperbaric medicine to measure the total pressure exerted by the surrounding environment, including atmospheric pressure at sea level. One ATA is equivalent to the atmospheric pressure at sea level (14.7 psi or 101.3 kPa).
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The process by which HBOT reduces inflammation in the body, promoting healing and reducing pain and swelling in affected tissues.

B

• Boyle’s Law: A principle in physics stating that the pressure and volume of a gas are inversely proportional at a constant temperature. In HBOT, increased pressure reduces the volume of gas bubbles in tissues, aiding in conditions like decompression sickness.

C

• Cellular Regeneration: The process by which cells repair and reproduce, which is enhanced by the increased oxygen levels provided by HBOT.
• Chronic Conditions: Long-term medical conditions that may benefit from HBOT, such as chronic wounds, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.

D

• Decompression Sickness (DCS): A condition that occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and tissues due to rapid changes in pressure, often experienced by divers. HBOT is an effective treatment for DCS.

E

• Epigenetics: The study of changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence. HBOT can influence epigenetic markers, promoting healing and regeneration.
• Emerging Treatments: New and developing applications of HBOT for conditions that are not yet widely recognized or FDA-approved, such as autism, traumatic brain injury, and certain types of cancer.

F

• FDA Cleared Treatments: Medical conditions for which the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of HBOT, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and chronic non-healing wounds.
• Fasting Protocols: Dietary approaches involving intermittent fasting or extended fasting periods to improve metabolic health, which can be synergistic with HBOT.

G

• Growth Factors: Proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and healing. HBOT stimulates the release of growth factors, enhancing tissue repair.

H

• Henry’s Law: A gas law stating that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is proportional to its partial pressure above the liquid. In HBOT, increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve in the blood plasma.
• Hyperoxygenation: The state of having elevated levels of oxygen in the body tissues, achieved through HBOT, which can enhance healing and reduce infection.

I

• Immune System: The body’s defense system against infections and diseases. HBOT can enhance immune function by improving oxygen delivery to tissues and reducing inflammation.

K

• Ketosis: A metabolic state in which the body uses ketones, derived from fat, as a primary energy source instead of glucose. Ketosis can be achieved through ketogenic diets or fasting and can be beneficial when combined with HBOT.

L

• Lymphatic System: The network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins and waste. HBOT improves lymphatic flow, aiding in detoxification and immune response.

M

• Metabolic Flexibility: The ability of the body to switch between using carbohydrates and fats for fuel efficiently. Metabolic flexibility can be enhanced through dietary practices like intermittent fasting and ketosis, working synergistically with HBOT.
• Mitochondria: The energy-producing organelles in cells, often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell. HBOT enhances mitochondrial function and ATP production.

O

• Oxygen Dose per Session (UDO/s): The amount of oxygen administered during a hyperbaric session, calculated as (total pressure) x (percentage of oxygen) x (minutes).

P

• Plasma: The liquid component of blood that carries blood cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products. HBOT increases the oxygen content in plasma, improving oxygen delivery to tissues.

R

• Red Light Therapy: A treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red light to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. It works synergistically with HBOT.

S

• Stem Cells: Undifferentiated cells with the potential to develop into various cell types. HBOT stimulates the release of stem cells, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.

T

• Telomeres: Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with age. HBOT has been shown to lengthen telomeres, potentially reversing aspects of cellular aging.

U

• Unit Dose of Oxygen per Session (UDO/s): A measure used to quantify the total oxygen exposure during an HBOT session, accounting for pressure, oxygen concentration, and duration.