What to Expect During Your First HBOT Session

Nervous about your first HBOT session? Don't be. The chamber experience is calming, safe, and surprisingly enjoyable for most people. Here's exactly what happens, step by step.

Before You Arrive

A few days before your session, you'll have a brief medical consultation. The center will:

• Review your medical history
• Check for any contraindications
• Explain the protocol for your condition
• Answer your questions
• Provide pre-session instructions

Most centers ask you to avoid carbonated drinks, alcohol, and smoking on the day of your session.

Arriving at the Center

Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before your session. You'll:

• Change into provided cotton scrubs (no synthetics — they can build static)
• Remove all jewelry, electronics, makeup, and skincare products
• Use the restroom (sessions are 60–90 minutes)
• Get a final vital signs check
• Meet your HBOT technician who will be monitoring you

Entering the Chamber

The two main chamber types feel quite different:

• Monoplace chamber: A clear acrylic tube where you lie alone. You can see out, the technician sees in. Soft music plays, often a TV is positioned to be visible.
• Multiplace chamber: A larger room you sit in, often with other patients. Wear an oxygen hood/mask. A medical attendant may be inside with you.

Pressurization (10–15 minutes)

The chamber slowly pressurizes — like an airplane ascending or descending. You'll feel pressure in your ears, similar to descending in a plane. You'll need to 'equalize' your ears by:

• Swallowing repeatedly
• Yawning
• Gently blowing while holding your nose closed
• Wiggling your jaw

If you can't equalize, the technician will slow the pressurization. Tell them immediately if you feel ear pain — never push through it.

Treatment Phase (60–90 minutes)

Once at target pressure, you simply breathe normally. The 'work' is done by the chamber and your body. Most patients:

• Watch TV or movies
• Listen to music or podcasts
• Read
• Nap (very common!)
• Practice meditation

You may feel slight warmth as the chamber heats slightly from pressurization. Your voice may sound deeper and squeakier — that's normal and harmless.

Depressurization (10–15 minutes)

At the end of your session, the chamber slowly returns to normal pressure. Your ears may feel popped or full — they'll resolve quickly. The technician will guide you through any equalization needed.

After Your Session

After the chamber depressurizes, you'll change back into your clothes and have a brief check-in. Most people feel:

• Calm and relaxed
• Slightly tired (especially the first few sessions)
• Mentally clearer
• Some report a 'glow' or feeling refreshed

You can drive home and resume normal activities. Most centers schedule sessions back-to-back, so you can plan your visits efficiently.