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The aim of oxygen treatment in MS is thus to minimise the amount of damage being caused, promote rapid healing and limit scar formation which can prevent nerve function being restored. Clearly this is most appropriate as soon as possible after symptoms become apparent.
The main objective of any useful therapy in the established disease is to limit further damage rather than expect to cure existing scars. Prevention is not only better but more realistic here than cure, and, while there are many accounts of improvement or stabilisation in the variety of neurological functions by Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in MS, it has been in bladder function that positive results have been most frequently described by researchers.
Measurement of bladder capacity and emptying have shown that oxygen treatment has a distinctly beneficial effect and a two year study at Glasgow demonstrated the importance of maintaining regular HBOT treatment to prevent the progressive deterioration in bladder function commonly found in MS.
The main objective of any useful therapy in the established disease is to limit further damage.
The value of such prevention of irreversible bladder nerve damage is measured not only in terms of comfort and well-being for an MS person, but also in the minimising of the tendency towards chronic bladder infection and the kidney damage which may have long-term consequences.
Where is Oxygen Treatment Available?
HDOT is available at almost all MS National Therapy Centres. The equipment in the Centres is fully and regularly tested, maintained and insured and all operators are comprehensively trained in its use. The initial course of treatment lasts for twenty days, (five days a week for four weeks) with each session lasting for one hour.
pure oxygen is breathed by facemask or mouthpiece. After treatment a short rest with a cup of tea is recommended. Patients are monitored during the initial course and at its conclusion. After this, a regime for follow-up treatment is determined - ideally this would be once per week.
Remember, HBOT is NOT a cure for MS - whilst many MS people report improvements in their symptoms, the main aim is to stabilise the patient’s condition and it has been shown that this can most often be achieved with regard to bladder function. There are no side effects, but before commencing a course confirmation that the patient’s GP has no objection must be obtained and any physical condition other than MS must be declared (e.g. it is essential that the ears can be cleared under pressure).
During the last fifteen years well over 1.2 million treatment sessions have been carried out in this country alone without significant incident.
Treating MS with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
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