Enhancing Cognitive Function with Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Insights from Recent Research

After living in two residences that required mold remediation, this study on improving cognitive function post mold exposure surely grabbed my attention. Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) at 1.3 atmospheres absolute (ATA) has garnered attention for its potential cognitive benefits, particularly in individuals exposed to environmental toxins. This particular study conducted by Ezra, Dang, and Heuser (2010) explored the effects of mHBOT on patients who experienced cognitive impairments due to mold exposure.

Study Overview
The study involved 15 participants who had developed attention deficits and slowed reaction times following exposure to mold toxins. These cognitive impairments were objectively measured using the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA), a standardized assessment tool.

Treatment Protocol

Participants underwent ten sessions of mHBOT at 1.3 ATA. Each session aimed to increase oxygen availability in the body, potentially facilitating neural repair and improving cognitive function.

Key Findings

Post-treatment assessments revealed statistically significant improvements in both attention span and reaction time among participants. These findings suggest that mHBOT may be effective in mitigating cognitive deficits associated with environmental toxin exposure.

Implications

The study’s results indicate that mHBOT at 1.3 ATA could serve as a non-invasive therapeutic option for individuals experiencing cognitive impairments due to environmental factors. By enhancing oxygen delivery to the brain, mHBOT may support neural recovery and improve cognitive performance.

Conclusion

While further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of mHBOT, this study provides promising evidence for its role in cognitive rehabilitation for individuals exposed to mold, and also offers therapeutic consideration for those with ADD, short term memory challenges, brain fog and even autism. Individuals affected by environmental toxins may consider mHBOT as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address such cognitive challenges. mHBOT is generally less expensive and safer to use than higher pressure chambers and can be found at many wellness centers.

Reference:
Ezra, N., Dang, K., & Heuser, G. (2010). Improvement of attention span and reaction time with hyperbaric oxygen treatment in patients with toxic injury due to mold exposure. European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, 30(1), 1–6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2998645/