Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Program - Ischemic Stroke / Cerebral Stroke

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy program – Ischemic stroke / cerebral stroke

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, particularly as a part of cardiovascular disease. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 31% of the population died from these diseases in 2016, with 85% of those deaths attributed to heart disease and stroke. To raise public awareness of stroke prevention, the World Stroke Organization holds World Stroke Day annually on October 29th, urging attention to the prevention of risk factors.

Types of stroke

  1. Ischemic stroke：Ischemic stroke is caused by a blockage in a blood vessel. When the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, brain cells suffer from oxygen and nutrient deprivation, leading to death. It is mainly caused by narrowed blood vessels or loose blood clots. Ischemic stroke accounts for approximately 87% of all strokes. 
  2. Hemorrhagic stroke (burst blood vessels)：Caused by a ruptured blood vessel, resulting in intracranial hemorrhage.

Symptoms of stroke

Stroke symptoms can lead to permanent sequelae, including:

  • Paralysis
  • Perception and language barriers
  • Impaired memory
  • Weakened thinking ability
  • Incontinence
  • Dysphagia
  • Emotional problems and behavioral changes

Risk factors for stroke

  • Old age
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Previous history of stroke or transient ischemic attack
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Atrial fibrillation

Stroke treatment trends

The latest treatment trend is to seize the golden treatment period and implement hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as early as possible to improve the chances of recovery.

Mechanism of action of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of stroke

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, characterized by blockage of cerebral arteries. However, current treatment options for AIS remain limited. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is considered an effective option for improving brain tissue hypoxia caused by AIS. The main goal of acute hyperbaric oxygen therapy is to increase oxygen levels in the ischemic area during stroke blockage, thereby reducing damage caused by hypoxia. Studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can increase arterial blood oxygen partial pressure, increase oxygen content, stabilize the blood-brain barrier, reduce intracranial pressure, and alleviate cerebral edema. Furthermore, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is considered a safe treatment for acute ischemic stroke.

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FAQ

Q: Does hyperbaric oxygen therapy promote the growth of cancer cells?
A: Current clinical experience in Hong Kong shows that the standard treatment for radiation-induced injury has not been observed to promote tumor growth, but a comprehensive evaluation is required before treatment.

Q: Is the treatment process uncomfortable?
A: Most patients only feel a slight pressure in their ears (similar to an airplane taking off or landing), and medical staff will guide them on pressure adjustment techniques.

Q: When is HBOT not suitable for cancer patients?
A: Active central nervous system metastases, uncontrolled pneumothorax, and the use of certain chemotherapy drugs (such as cisplatin) require careful evaluation.