May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month: Finding Hope with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Navigating Lyme Disease: the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. Each year, nearly half a million people are diagnosed and treated, according to insurance data. The CDC reports that tick-borne diseases are on the rise, with positive tests reported across all 50 states, although prevalence in Oregon is lower.
Lyme disease can present a complex and often frustrating path to recovery, especially for individuals dealing with lingering symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain and neurological issues. As patients and providers explore adjunct therapy options for this debilitating illness, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has gained attention as a potential tool to support symptom management and improve quality of life.
HBOT works by delivering oxygen in a pressurized environment, allowing the body to absorb significantly higher levels of oxygen than under normal conditions. This process is driven by Henry’s Law, which allows oxygen to dissolve into blood plasma and reach damaged tissues throughout the body. This increase in oxygen availability enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, boosts immune function, and supports the body’s natural ability to heal.
For individuals with Lyme disease, inflammation—particularly in the brain and central nervous system—can be a major contributor to ongoing symptoms. Lower-pressure HBOT protocols, typically in the range of 1.3 to 1.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA), are often used to support neuroinflammation. These gentler sessions may be recommended for a limited period, such as a few weeks, especially for patients experiencing neurological symptoms. Starting at these pressures can help the body adapt gradually before a possible increase in intensity.
In cases of chronic infection, higher-pressure protocols—generally between 2.0 and 2.4 ATA—may be considered over a longer series of sessions, sometimes ranging from 20 to 80 treatments.
While HBOT is not a standalone cure for Lyme disease, it is increasingly used alongside other treatments to support immune function, decrease inflammation, improve circulation and promote tissue repair. Patients often report benefits such as reduced joint pain and fatigue, improved cognitive clarity, and enhanced overall well-being.
As with any therapy, individual responses can vary. Factors such as the stage of illness, symptom severity and overall health all play a role in determining how HBOT may fit into a broader care plan. Collaboration with knowledgeable providers is key to developing an effective approach. The growing body of anecdotal and clinical evidence suggests that HBOT could be a valuable part of a comprehensive Lyme disease management plan.
Anyone considering HBOT for Lyme disease should consult with their physician. This ensures that hyperbaric therapy is integrated safely into their overall treatment strategy. When used under trained guidance, HBOT may offer significant support for those suffering from Lyme disease symptoms.
To learn more, visit www.renewal.care or call 503-724-1212. Named Best of Beaverton for Holistic Wellness at our award-winning facility.
