Complications of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat many conditions from severe burns to carbon monoxide poisoning. But like all medical procedures, it has some risks. Here's what you need to know about.

Pressure Injuries

Pressure injuries are sores that happen on areas of the skin that are under pressure. The pressure can come from lying in bed, sitting in a wheelchair, or wearing a cast for a long time.

Concussion

A mild concussion is caused by a blow or jolt to the head.

Sleep/Wake Cycles

How and when you feel sleepy has to do with your sleep/wake cycles. These cycles are set off by chemicals in the brain.

Stages of Sleep

One way that scientists measure sleep is through brain waves, which change in specific ways as you move through the sleep process. Your brain waves change during four basic stages of sleep.

Vestibular Balance Disorder

Dizziness and a spinning sensation (vertigo) are classic symptoms of a vestibular balance disorder. These disorders can strike at any age. But they are most common as you get older.

Herpes Meningoencephalitis

Herpes meningoencephalitis is an infection of the brain and the tissue that covers it with the herpes simplex virus.

Traveler Alert: Chikungunya Virus

Chikungunya is caused by a virus carried by mosquitoes. The disease was first found in Africa and Asia, but recent outbreaks have been in the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Lambert-Eaton Syndrome

Lambert-Eaton syndrome is an autoimmune disorder affecting the areas where nerves and muscles connect. It causes weak muscles, trouble walking, and other symptoms.