Hyperbaric Therapy in COVID-19 and Longcovid Syndrome – A Review of Journal Databases

This article presents a review of available research on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in the treatment of acute COVID-19 and long COVID syndrome. The analysis included papers published in peer-reviewed scientific databases and clinical projects registered in international registries. In most clinical reports, including small groups of patients from China, the USA, Israel, and Europe, HBOT was associated with improved oxygenation parameters, reduced need for mechanical ventilation, reduced mortality, and a beneficial effect on neurocognitive functions and symptoms of post-COVID syndrome. The results also indicate the potential of HBOT in mitigating inflammatory processes and improving patients’ quality of life. At the same time, all studies emphasize the limited sample size, lack of standardized protocols, and the need for further randomized controlled trials. The authors highlight the threat posed by the unauthorized use of so-called “soft chambers” for commercial purposes, which do not meet medical standards and may pose a serious risk to patients. The conclusion is that HBOT is a potentially promising therapy, but should currently only be used in controlled clinical trials or in exceptional situations after careful consideration of the benefit-risk ratio.