COVID-19/Long Haulers Management Protocol

This protocol for using hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a complementary approach in managing the persistent symptoms experienced by COVID-19 long haulers. This protocol aims to leverage potential benefits of HBOT in addressing the multi-systemic impacts of long-term COVID-19 symptoms, including fatigue, cognitive impairment, respiratory difficulties, and others. Ideal for individuals diagnosed with post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), commonly known as long COVID, who experience persistent symptoms and have been evaluated and cleared for HBOT by their healthcare providers. 

GOAL
Alleviate persistent symptoms associated with long COVID, enhance recovery processes, and improve overall quality of life for affected individuals. 

HOW IT WORKS

  1. Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: Increases oxygenation to tissues and organs that may have been compromised due to COVID-19, potentially aiding in repair and function restoration. 

  2. Reduced Inflammation: Aims to decrease systemic inflammation, which is a common feature in long-term COVID and contributes to a variety of symptoms including fatigue and joint pain. 

  3. Neurological Support: Improves oxygen supply to the brain, which may help alleviate neurological symptoms such as brain fog, headaches, and cognitive dysfunction. 

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ALL THE DETAILS

  • Pressure Level
    1.3 or 1.4 to gradually increase to 1.7 - 2.0 ATA using Supplemental Oxygen.

    Session Length
    Each session lasts approximately 60-90 minutes. 

  • Intensive Phase
    Daily sessions for the first 2 weeks, focusing on initiating physiological changes and symptom relief. (Modified: 3 times per week for 4 weeks.)

    Maintenance Phase
    Depending on individual response and improvements, reduce to 3-4 sessions per week for an additional 4-6 weeks. 

  • Hydration
    Maintain good hydration to support blood flow and oxygen delivery. 

    Nutrition
    A nutrient-rich diet that supports immune function and overall recovery, potentially including supplements to address specific deficiencies noted in long COVID patients. 

    Physical and Cognitive Rehabilitation
    Appropriate physical activity and cognitive exercises as tolerated, to complement HBOT and enhance overall recovery.

  • Systemic Recovery Support: Increased oxygen levels can enhance tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and potentially help restore function to organs affected by COVID-19, such as the lungs and heart. 

    Cognitive and Functional Improvements: By improving cerebral oxygenation, HBOT may help alleviate the cognitive symptoms of long COVID, supporting a return to pre illness cognitive and functional levels. 

    This HBOT protocol for COVID-19 long haulers is designed to utilize the therapeutic benefits of increased atmospheric pressure and enhanced oxygen to support recovery from persistent symptoms of COVID-19. Collaboration with a comprehensive care team, including pulmonologists, neurologists, and rehabilitation specialists, is crucial to ensure that HBOT is safely and effectively integrated into the broader treatment plan. 

  • Red Light Therapy (RLT) before Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) can be helpful because it primes the body’s cells and circulation, making them more receptive to the oxygen boost that comes in HBOT.

    • RLT duration before HBOT: 10–15 minutes full body, or 5–10 minutes targeted.

    • Frequency: 3–5x/week or combined with HBOT sessions

    • Timing: Ideally right before the HBOT session so vasodilation and mitochondrial activation are at peak.

    Wavelengths:
    660 nm (red) – skin rejuvenation, inflammation
    850 nm (near-infrared)– deeper tissue, muscle, brain, joints

    Here’s why:

    1. Increases Blood Flow Before Oxygen Loading
    2. Stimulates Mitochondrial Energy Production
    3. Reduces Pre-existing Inflammation
    4. Enhances Nitric Oxide (NO) Release
    5. Prepares the Nervous System- Relaxing

  • Pre-Session Recommendations

    1. Light, balanced meal 1–2 hours prior

    2. No alcohol or heavy caffeine same day

    3. Hydration encouraged

    4. Ear clearing check

    Do not use if you have any of the following:

    1. Uncontrolled seizure disorders

    2. Active upper respiratory infections or sinus congestion

    3. Uncontrolled hypertension

    4. Untreated pneumothorax

    5. Claustrophobia (without desensitization or sedation)

    Clients should start hyperbaric oxygen therapy with a protocol package for comprehensive initial treatment, then continue with a maintenance membership for ongoing support and benefits.

    Individual outcomes from the therapy may vary. Each person’s response to treatment depends on a variety of factors including their unique health condition and overall wellness. While our experienced staff is committed to providing personalized support and guidance throughout the therapy process, we do not guarantee the cure of any medical condition.

    Our goal is to assist clients in achieving relief from symptoms and to support overall healing and recovery. Clients should consult with their healthcare provider before beginning treatment and disclose any health concerns during their sessions.

    By participating in hyperbaric oxygen therapy at ELEVATE SONOMA, clients acknowledge understanding of these terms.
20 PACK of 90 min. Sessions
40 PACK of 90 min. Sessions
Full Pricing List
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If you're unsure where to begin, schedule a free consultation with one of our team members. This allows us to understand your needs and goals and tailor a protocol specifically for you.

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