Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a debilitating condition characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest. While traditional treatments often focus on symptom management, recent studies have explored the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for individuals with CFS.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increased oxygen pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve in the blood, which can improve tissue oxygenation.
How HBOT May Help Chronic Fatigue
Several mechanisms may contribute to the potential benefits of HBOT for CFS:
Improved Tissue Oxygenation: CFS may be associated with impaired cellular energy production. HBOT could potentially enhance oxygen delivery to tissues, improving mitochondrial function and reducing fatigue.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation has been implicated in CFS. HBOT may help reduce inflammation by increasing the availability of oxygen to immune cells.
Neuroprotective Effects: HBOT has been shown to have neuroprotective properties. By improving oxygenation and reducing inflammation, HBOT could potentially protect brain cells and alleviate cognitive symptoms often associated with CFS.
Research Evidence
“HBO2 therapy decreases the severity of symptoms and increases the life quality of CFS patients. It may be a new treatment modality for the management of CFS” (1)
“Long COVID-related fatigue can be debilitating, and may affect young people who were previously in economic employment. The results presented here suggest potential benefits of HBOT, with statistically significant results following 10 sessions.” (2)
Studies have shown promising results for the use of HBOT in fibromyalgia with associated fatigue. For example, a 2016 study published in the journal Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine found that HBOT was associated with significant improvements in fatigue severity, sleep quality, and cognitive function in patients with FM and CFS.
“HBOT is a safe therapy to experiment with FM because it could improve the quality of life of these patients and reduce its economic impact on society.” (3)
Considerations and Next Steps
It's important to note that HBOT is not a cure for CFS. Individual responses may vary, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if HBOT is appropriate for you.
As research continues to evolve, we may gain a deeper understanding of the potential benefits and limitations of HBOT for CFS. If you are living with chronic fatigue, discussing HBOT with our team and your provider may be a valuable step in exploring potential treatment options.
Citations:
Akarsu S, Tekin L, Ay H, et al. The efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the management of chronic fatigue syndrome [published correction appears in Undersea Hyperb Med. 2013 May-Jun;40(3):312]. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2013;40(2):197-200.
Robbins T, Gonevski M, Clark C, et al. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the treatment of long COVID: early evaluation of a highly promising intervention. Clin Med (Lond). 2021;21(6):e629-e632. doi:10.7861/clinmed.2021-0462
Cracchiolo AN, Palma DM, Genco F, et al. Fibromyalgia: Could hyperbaric oxygen therapy make the difference? Our experience. Clin Case Rep. 2023;11(9):e7812. Published 2023 Aug 24. doi:10.1002/ccr3.7812
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