Treatment of Advanced Lyme Disease through Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is gaining attention as a potential treatment for Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including neurological problems and cognitive impairment.

In HBOT sessions, patients breathe 100% pure oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure, typically 2-3 times higher than normal. This elevated oxygen level can kill anaerobic bacteria, such as those responsible for Lyme disease, while also supporting the body's immune function against bacterial pathogens.

Researchers at the University of Texas A&M are investigating HBOT as a treatment for Lyme disease. Dr. Richard Ratcliffe, one of the researchers, found that HBOT showed potential in reducing symptoms and improving recovery in Lyme-Borreliose patients.

Lyme disease can impair mitochondrial function, reducing the cells' ability to produce energy. It can also cause fluctuations in cytosolic calcium levels, critical for maintaining cellular and mitochondrial function. HBOT can help alleviate these issues by increasing oxygen delivery to tissues, including the brain and nervous system.

Lyme patients often show increased levels of oxidative stress and elevated mitochondrial superoxide production. HBOT can help reduce inflammation associated with Lyme disease, and it can potentially repair damaged nerves affected by the illness.

A study in the Journal of Chinese Medical Association reported successful treatment of chronic Lyme disease using HBOT after antibiotic therapy had failed. Researchers at Texas A&M University found that HBOT treatments were effective in treating Lyme disease due to the higher pressurized atmosphere producing oxygen levels that killed off the causative bacteria.

While HBOT is not yet FDA-approved for treating Lyme disease, it is considered an off-label treatment. Notable figures like Kris Kristofferson have undergone HBOT as part of their management for Lyme disease. Kristofferson was previously misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's disease before receiving a correct Lyme disease diagnosis.

HBOT can help alleviate cognitive impairment and "brain fog" associated with Lyme disease. By delivering high concentrations of oxygen under pressurized conditions, HBOT can help protect and potentially repair damaged nerves and tissues, offering hope for those suffering from the debilitating effects of Lyme disease.