When would hyperbaric oxygen therapy typically be indicated?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is typically indicated in cases where there are conditions that can benefit from increased atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels. One such condition is the presence of an air bubble in the blood, which can occur after certain types of diving or surgical procedures. This phenomenon, known as decompression sickness or "the bends," can lead to serious complications as the bubbles impede blood flow and can cause tissue damage.

In hyperbaric oxygen therapy, patients are placed in a pressurized chamber where they breathe 100% oxygen. This method increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the plasma and helps reduce the size of the air bubbles in the bloodstream, ultimately assisting in their absorption and ameliorating the symptoms associated with decompression sickness. This therapy enhances oxygen delivery to tissues and promotes healing in areas affected by damage or ischemia.

On the other hand, flu symptoms or routine check-ups do not warrant hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Regular oxygen administration may not involve the specific high-pressure environment of hyperbaric therapy but instead involves delivering oxygen at standard atmospheric pressure for conditions like COPD or respiratory distress.