Autism
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has been shown to benefit the underlying disease processes in Autism and as a result, Autism itself.
Autism is a developmental disorder that is characterized by problems with social skills, receptive behaviors, and verbal and nonverbal communication that is due to an injury to the brain during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood. In recent years, research has shown that Autism is not genetic, but is caused by environmental factors which have caused inflammation of susceptible genes. Much like other neurological disorders, the signs and symptoms of Autism depend on the specific areas of the brain that are injured; the temporal and frontal lobes are the primary injured areas in Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD.
How can HBOT benefit those living with Autism?
Children with Autism who received HBOT had significant improvements in overall functioning, receptive language, social interaction, eye contact, and sensory awareness. HBOT can also aid in removing toxins, such as heavy metals, from the blood, build new capillaries in the brain, and reduce inflammation in the brain and gut.
By increasing the amount of oxygen carried by the blood stream, there is greater opportunity for oxygen deprived tissue to receive oxygen. As a result of HBOT in individuals with Autism, studies have found the following:
Improved sleep
Improved immune functioning with a decrease in frequent infections
Improved expressive language
Improved receptive language
Improved fine and gross motor skills
Improved muscle tone and strength
Increased mental alertness
Increased calmness
Improved mood