Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in rehabilitation of patients after COVID‑19

Abstract

Severe complications of COVID‑19 are pneumonia and the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome, which is accompanied by hypoxia. Tissue hypoxia increases against the background of inflammatory reactions and hypercoagulation. Hyperbaric oxygenation can effectively reduce systemic hypoxia, improve blood circulation, has a beneficial effect on reducing the severity of the inflammatory condition by modulating oxidative stress, including lipid peroxidation, and increasing antioxidant enzymes. A review of clinical studies conducted in different countries shows the overall effectiveness of systemic maintenance therapy with the inclusion of hyperbaric oxygenation, which reduces the use of artificial ventilation and reduces the mortality rate of severely ill patients with COVID‑19. The article presents the results of our own research on the rehabilitation of 10 patients who had a severe form of COVID‑19. The inclusion in the rehabilitation of COVID‑19 patients of daily sessions of hyperbaric oxygenation in ‘soft’ modes (1,4–1,6 ATA) in combination with respiratory and physical gymnastics showed a positive effect and safety. In patients, shortness of breath decreased, blood saturation indicators improved, cognitive functions decreased, the severity of anxiety and depression decreased, and exercise tolerance increased.