Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Red blood cells constitute only 45 percent of the blood volume, while plasma transports very little O2 under normal atmosphere pressure. When the hyperbaric pressure is raised to three times normal, it will provide enough O2 in the plasma alone to sufficiently sustain life even in the absence of hemoglobin, as the amount of O2 is increased from 10 to 15 times normal. Patients are given 30 to 40 one hour treatments although a few require only five to ten. They may require maintenance sessions thereafter. They are also placed on a diet free of junk and foods to which they are allergic. Butter is used sparingly and margarine is avoided. Wheat, rye, oats, barley, milk products, and caffeine containing drinks are eliminated. Eggs raised in battery houses are avoided. Raw fruit and vegetables make an important component of the diet. Twenty patients were treated over a six month period. The response was excellent for 15 and slight for five. A few deteriorated several months after completing the series; a few booster sessions brought them back.