Contraindications

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is generally well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and temporary, such as ear or sinus discomfort, dizziness, or claustrophobia; however, certain contraindications—such as untreated pneumothorax, recent ear surgery, or specific medication use—must be carefully considered to ensure patient safety.

OxyGeneration is a non-emergency facility and is not the appropriate treatment centre for conditions that require emergency HBOT or contraindications that can only be managed through appropriate monitoring.

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Absolute Contraindications

Absolute Contraindication	Reason Contraindicated	Necessary Condition Prior to HBOT
Untreated pneumothorax	Gas embolism; Tension pneumothorax; Pneumomediastinum	Thoracostomy. Hospital based chamber only, observation and close medical supervision.
Bleomycin	Interstitial pneumonitis	No treatment for extended time from use of medication
Cisplatin	Impaired wound healing	No treatment for extended time from use of medication
Disulfiram (Antabuse)	Blocks superoxide dismutase, which is protective against oxygen toxicity	Discontinue medication
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin)	Cardiotoxicity	Discontinue medication
Mafenide (Sulfamylon)	Impaired wound healing	Discontinue and remove medication

Relative Contraindications

Relative Contraindication	Reason Contraindicated	Necessary Condition Prior to HBOT
Asthma	Air trapping upon ascent leading to pneumothorax	Must be well controlled with medications
Claustrophobia	Anxiety	Talk therapy, CBT or else appropriate anti-anxiety medication
Congenital Spherocytosis	Severe haemolysis	None; HBOT for emergencies only in a hospital based facility.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)	Loss hypoxic drive to breathe	Hospital based chamber only, observation and close medical supervision
Eustachian tube dysfunction	Barotrauma to tympanic membrane	Training and PE tubes. Consult with your medical team
High fever/ uncontrolled fever	Higher risk of seizures	Fever managements (e.g. antipyretic medications)
Pacemakers or epidural pain pump	Malfunction or deformation of device under pressure	Ensure manufacturer has pressure-tested device and to what level
Pregnancy	Unknown effect on foetus (previous studies from Russia suggest HBOT is safe)	None, but HBOT may be used in emergencies and in a hospital setting with appropriate observation
Seizures	May have lower seizure threshold	Should be stable on medications, may be treated with benzodiazepines. Consult with your medical team.
Upper respiratory infection (URI)/ Cold/ Flu	Barotrauma	Resolution of symptoms or decongestants