Glossary of Terms
The Glossary of Terms provides clear explanations of key concepts and terminology related to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This section is intended to help readers better understand the scientific, medical, and technical language used throughout HBOT research and practice.
A
Atmospheres Absolute (ATA)
A unit of pressure measurement used in hyperbaric medicine to describe the total pressure applied to the body. One ATA equals normal atmospheric pressure at sea level (approximately 14.7 psi or 101.3 kPa).
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Physiological processes through which HBOT supports the reduction of inflammation, helping regulate swelling, discomfort, and tissue irritation.
B
Boyle’s Law
A physical principle stating that gas volume decreases as pressure increases, assuming constant temperature. In HBOT, this law explains how increased pressure reduces gas bubble size, which is relevant in conditions such as decompression sickness.
C
Cellular Regeneration
The process by which cells repair, renew, and reproduce. Enhanced oxygen availability during HBOT supports cellular repair and recovery processes.
Chronic Conditions
Long-standing health conditions that may benefit from supportive therapies such as HBOT, including chronic wounds, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.
D
Decompression Sickness (DCS)
A condition caused by nitrogen bubble formation in tissues and blood due to rapid pressure changes, commonly affecting divers. HBOT is a recognized treatment for DCS.
E
Epigenetics
The study of changes in gene activity that do not involve alterations to DNA structure. Research suggests HBOT may influence epigenetic mechanisms associated with healing and cellular adaptation.
Emerging Applications
Investigational or developing uses of HBOT that are currently being studied but may not yet be FDA-cleared, such as neurological and inflammatory conditions.
F
FDA-Cleared Indications
Medical conditions for which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized the clinical use of HBOT, including carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and chronic non-healing wounds.
Fasting Protocols
Structured dietary practices involving planned periods without caloric intake. Fasting strategies may support metabolic health and are sometimes combined with HBOT in wellness-focused programs.
G
Growth Factors
Biologically active proteins that regulate cell growth, repair, and regeneration. HBOT has been shown to support the release of growth factors involved in tissue healing.
H
Henry’s Law
A gas law stating that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is proportional to the pressure exerted on that gas. In HBOT, increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve into blood plasma.
Hyperoxygenation
A state in which tissues receive higher-than-normal levels of oxygen, achieved during HBOT, supporting cellular function and healing processes.
I
Immune System
The body’s defense network against infection and disease. HBOT may support immune response by improving oxygen delivery and supporting inflammation regulation.
K
Ketosis
A metabolic state where the body uses fat-derived ketones as a primary energy source instead of glucose. Ketosis can be achieved through dietary strategies or fasting and may complement HBOT in metabolic wellness programs.
L
Lymphatic System
A network of vessels and tissues responsible for fluid balance, waste removal, and immune function. HBOT may support lymphatic circulation and detoxification processes.
M
Metabolic Flexibility
The body’s ability to efficiently switch between carbohydrates and fats as energy sources. Improved metabolic flexibility is associated with metabolic health and may work synergistically with HBOT.
Mitochondria
Cellular structures responsible for energy production. Often called the “powerhouses” of the cell, mitochondria rely on oxygen to generate ATP, a process supported by HBOT.
O
Oxygen Dose per Session (UDO/s)
A standardized method for calculating oxygen exposure during HBOT, determined by multiplying chamber pressure, oxygen concentration, and session duration.
P
Plasma
The liquid component of blood that transports cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen dissolved directly into plasma, improving tissue oxygen delivery.
R
Red Light Therapy
A non-invasive modality using specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support tissue repair, inflammation management, and cellular health. Often used alongside HBOT.
S
Stem Cells
Undifferentiated cells capable of developing into specialized cell types. Research indicates HBOT may support the natural mobilization of stem cells involved in tissue repair.
T
Telomeres
Protective structures at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with age. Some studies suggest HBOT may influence telomere dynamics related to cellular aging.
U
Unit Dose of Oxygen per Session (UDO/s)
A quantitative measure of total oxygen exposure during a hyperbaric session, accounting for pressure, oxygen percentage, and time.
