Understanding Migraines and Their Impact
Migraines are not ordinary headaches. They are neurological events that often involve pulsating pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes aura—visual or sensory disturbances preceding the headache. Migraines affect approximately 12% of the population, with women being three times more likely to experience them than men. While triggers vary, they often include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, and environmental factors.
The complexity of migraines lies in their connection to brain activity and blood flow. Studies suggest that migraines result from changes in cerebral blood flow and the release of inflammatory chemicals. This makes HBOT a compelling option, as it directly addresses oxygenation and inflammation in the brain.
How HBOT Works to Alleviate Migraines
HBOT involves the use of a pressurized chamber where individuals breathe in nearly 100% oxygen. This increases oxygen levels in the blood and tissues, promoting enhanced cellular function and repair. The elevated oxygen levels can mitigate some of the physiological processes that lead to migraines, such as hypoxia (low oxygen levels) in brain tissue.
Improving Oxygenation in the Brain
Migraines are often associated with reduced oxygen levels in certain parts of the brain. Hypoxia can trigger migraine symptoms by impairing cellular function and promoting the release of inflammatory molecules. HBOT counters this by delivering oxygen-rich blood to affected areas, restoring normal cellular activity, and potentially shortening the duration of a migraine.
Reducing Neuroinflammation
Neuroinflammation is a key player in the migraine process. It involves the activation of inflammatory pathways in the brain, leading to pain and sensitivity. HBOT has been shown to reduce inflammation by lowering the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins involved in the inflammatory response.
Regulating Blood Flow
During a migraine, blood vessels in the brain may constrict and dilate irregularly, leading to fluctuating blood flow. This irregularity can exacerbate migraine symptoms. HBOT helps stabilize blood flow by promoting the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain.
Clinical Evidence Supporting HBOT for Migraines
The use of HBOT for migraines is supported by a growing body of research. A study published in Undersea & Hyperbaric Medicine demonstrated that HBOT reduced the severity and duration of migraines in participants. Patients reported significant relief after just one or two sessions, with some experiencing long-term benefits from regular HBOT sessions.
Another study in the Journal of Headache and Pain explored the effects of HBOT on chronic migraines. The results indicated that HBOT decreased the frequency of migraines and improved participants’ quality of life. These findings highlight the potential of HBOT as both an acute and preventive measure for migraine management.
For those Looking to Stay Active, Mobile & Healthy
Start Your Wellness Journey Here
Life's adventures aren't waiting. Call today or fill out the inquiry form below to start your Premier Wellness Experience.
By clicking Contact I agree Bucks County Hyperbarics LLC may contact me by phone or text message including by automated means and prerecorded messages about wellness services, and that I can access real estate services without submitting an online form. I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.
Potential Benefits Beyond Pain Relief
While the primary goal of HBOT for migraines is to alleviate pain, the therapy offers several additional benefits that can improve overall health and well-being.
Enhanced Energy Levels
Migraines often leave individuals feeling drained and fatigued. By improving oxygenation throughout the body, HBOT can boost energy levels and support recovery from the physical toll of migraines.
Improved Sleep Quality
Many migraine sufferers struggle with sleep disturbances. HBOT has been shown to improve sleep quality by regulating brain activity and promoting relaxation, which can indirectly reduce migraine triggers.
Stress Reduction
Stress is a common trigger for migraines. HBOT’s ability to enhance cellular repair and reduce inflammation can also help lower stress levels, creating a more stable environment for brain function.
Incorporating HBOT into a Migraine Management Plan
While HBOT offers promising results, it is most effective when combined with other migraine management strategies.
Identifying Triggers
Understanding and avoiding migraine triggers is essential. Common triggers include certain foods, dehydration, stress, and lack of sleep. Keeping a migraine diary can help identify patterns and reduce the frequency of attacks.
Lifestyle Modifications
Healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper hydration, can support overall brain health and reduce the likelihood of migraines.
Complementary Therapies
HBOT can be combined with other therapies, such as acupuncture, meditation, or biofeedback, to create a holistic approach to migraine management.
Considerations and Precautions
While HBOT is generally considered safe, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting therapy. Certain conditions, such as claustrophobia or unmanaged pneumothorax, may make HBOT unsuitable for some individuals. Additionally, therapy should always be administered under the guidance of trained professionals in a certified facility.
Other References
Goyal A, Chonis T, Cooper JS. Hyperbaric cardiovascular effects. [Updated 2019 Jul 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2019 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482231/
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0065522
M A, Ummer VS, Maiya AG, et al. Low level laser therapy for the patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy – A systematic review, Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 10.1016/j.dsx.2019.07.035, (2019).
Wang EB, Kaur R, Fierro M, et al. Safety and penetration of light into the brain. Photobiomodulation in the Brain, 10.1016/B978-0-12-815305-5.00005-1, (49-66), (2019).
Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation defect in the heart of subjects with coronary artery disease. Ait-Aissa K, Blaszak SC, Beutner G, et al. Sci Rep. 2019 May 20; 9(1):7623. Epub 2019 May 20.
Jang S, Lewis TS, Powers C, et al. Elucidating mitochondrial electron transport chain supercomplexes in the heart during ischemia-reperfusion. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2017 Jul 1; 27(1):57-69. Epub 2016 Nov 11
Pahwa R, Jialal I. Chronic inflammation. [Updated 2019 Jun 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2019 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493173/
Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, et al. Molecular biology of the cell. 4th edition. New York: Garland Science; 2002. Electron-Transport Chains and Their Proton Pumps. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26904/
Sharma S, Kelly TK, Jones PA. Epigenetics in cancer. Carcinogenesis. 2010;31(1):27–36. doi:10.1093/carcin/bgp220
Gauldie J. Inflammation and the aging process: devil or angel. Nutr Rev. 2007 Dec; 65(12 Pt 2):S167-9.
Hillary RF, Stevenson AJ, Cox SR, et al. An epigenetic predictor of death captures multi-modal measures of brain health. Mol Psychiatry. 2019 Dec 3; Epub 2019 Dec 3.
Banszerus VL, Vetter VM, Salewsky B, et al. Exploring the relationship of relative telomere length and the epigenetic clock in the lipid cardio cohort. Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Jun 21; 20(12). Epub 2019 Jun 21.
Sullivan J, Mirbahai L, Lord JM. Major trauma and acceleration of the ageing process. Ageing Res Rev. 2018 Dec; 48:32-39. Epub 2018 Oct 11.
Mendelsohn AR, Larrick JW. Epigenetic Drift Is a Determinant of Mammalian Lifespan. Rejuvenation Res. 2017 Oct; 20(5):430-436.
Harch, PG. Hyperbaric oxygen in chronic traumatic brain injury: oxygen, pressure, and gene therapy. Med Gas Res 5, 9 (2015) doi:10.1186/s13618-015-0030-6
General Health
Fife CE, Eckert KA, Carter MJ. An update on the appropriate role for hyperbaric oxygen: indications and evidence. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016;138(3 Suppl):107S–16S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0000000000002714
Thom SR. Oxidative stress is fundamental to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2009;106(3):988–995. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.91004.2008
Fujita N, Ono M, Tomioka T, et al. Effects of hyperbaric oxygen at 1.25 atmospheres absolute with normal air on macrophage number and infiltration during rat skeletal muscle regeneration. PLoS One. 2014;9(12):e115685. Published 2014 Dec 22. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0115685
Vadas D, Kalichman L, Hadanny A, et al. Hyperbaric oxygen environment can enhance brain activity and multitasking performance. Front Integr Neurosci. 2017;11:25. Published 2017 Sep 27. doi:10.3389/fnint.2017.00025
Hink J, Jansen E. Are superoxide and/or hydrogen peroxide responsible for some of the beneficial effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy? Med. Hypotheses, 57 (6) (2001), pp. 764-769.
HBOT Mechanism
Bhutani S, Vishwanath G. Hyperbaric oxygen and wound healing. Indian J Plast Surg. 2012;45(2):316–324. doi:10.4103/0970-0358.101309
Thom SR. Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2011;127 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):131S–141S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181fbe2bf
Thom SR. Oxidative stress is fundamental to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2009;106(3):988–995. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.91004.2008
Wingelaar TT, Brinkman P, van Ooij PJAM, et al. Markers of Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity in Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Using Exhaled Breath Analysis. Front Physiol. 2019;10:475. Published 2019 Apr 24. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00475
A.L. Gill, C.N.A. Bell, Hyperbaric oxygen: its uses, mechanisms of action and outcomes, QJM: An International Journal of Medicine, Volume 97, Issue 7, July 2004, Pages 385–395, https://doi.org/10.1093/qjmed/hch074