hbot Preparations & Safety

HBOT Preparations & Safety at Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center

Getting ready for your hyperbaric oxygen therapy session is simple when you know what to expect. At Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center in Sacramento, CA, patient safety is our top priority. This page covers everything you need to know before, during, and after your HBOT session. Questions? Call (916) 446-2591 — our team is happy to help.

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How to Prepare for Your Hyperbaric Oxygen Session

Following these preparation guidelines ensures the safest and most effective HBOT experience:

  • Clothing: Only clean, 100% cotton clothing is allowed inside the chamber. No synthetic fabrics.
  • No cosmetics or personal care products: Do not use perfumes, deodorants, hair spray, hair oil or gel, lipstick, body lotions, nail polish, or any petroleum-based products (such as Vaseline or Neosporin) before your session. If you have professional acrylic or gel nails, please schedule nail appointments after completing your HBOT treatment series.
  • No jewelry, wigs, or metal accessories — including wire-supported undergarments.
  • Disclose all medications: Inform our technician of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
  • No alcohol or carbonated beverages for at least 4 hours before your session.
  • No caffeine or coffee for at least 4 hours before your session.
  • Smoking: Patients should ideally give up tobacco products during their treatment period, as smoking constricts blood vessels and interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. If you smoke, please refrain from smoking for at least 2 hours before and after your session.
  • If you are unsure about any product or item, please ask our technician before your session.

Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Safe?

Yes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy at Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center is prescribed by a naturopathic doctor and performed under qualified medical supervision. HBOT has an excellent safety record and is well-tolerated by the vast majority of patients. As with any medical treatment, there are minor risks that will be discussed with you before you sign your consent form. All new HBOT patients must be evaluated by one of our naturopathic doctors before beginning treatment to confirm there are no contraindications.

Possible Side Effects of HBOT

HBOT is generally very well tolerated. The most common side effects include:

  • Ear and sinus pressure (barotrauma) — The most common side effect, caused by the change in pressure. Patients are taught techniques to equalize ear pressure during compression (similar to techniques used when flying). In some cases, ear tubes may be appropriate.
  • Temporary vision changes — A small number of patients experience minor, temporary changes in vision during their treatment period. These typically resolve after completing the course of treatment.
  • Oxygen toxicity — A rare side effect resulting from excessive oxygen exposure. This is carefully managed through proper protocol and dosing by our clinical team.

What the Technician Needs to Know Before Your Session

Before every HBOT session, please inform our hyperbaric technician if:

  • You have any cold or flu symptoms, fever, sinus congestion, nasal congestion, or chest congestion
  • There is any possibility you may be pregnant
  • There has been any change in your medications since your last session
  • You have skipped a meal before your session
  • You are diabetic and did not take your insulin prior to treatment
  • You are experiencing nausea or vomiting
  • You have any concerns or anxiety about the session

You can download and review our HBOT Consent Form here before your first session. For additional information about what to expect, visit our About Hyperbaric Oxygen page, our Conditions Treated by HBOT page, and our Hyperbaric Oxygen FAQs. To book a session, call (916) 446-2591 or visit our HBOT Pricing page.

Frequently Asked Questions About HBOT Safety and Preparation

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?

Yes. HBOT at Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center is prescribed by a licensed naturopathic doctor and performed under qualified medical supervision. It has an excellent safety record and is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients. Minor risks — primarily ear and sinus pressure — are discussed with every patient before treatment begins. All new patients are evaluated to confirm there are no contraindications before their first session.

What should I wear to a hyperbaric oxygen session?

Only clean, 100% cotton clothing is permitted inside the HBOT chamber. No synthetic fabrics, petroleum-based products, cosmetics, perfumes, deodorants, hair products, jewelry, nail polish, or metal accessories are allowed. When in doubt, ask our technician before your appointment.

Can I eat or drink before my HBOT session?

Avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages for at least 4 hours before your session. Avoid caffeine and food for at least 4 hours as well. It is important not to skip meals entirely — fasting is not required, just avoid eating immediately before your appointment. If you are diabetic and concerned about blood sugar management, please inform our team before your session.

What happens if I feel anxious or claustrophobic during the session?

Please let us know before your session if you have concerns about enclosed spaces. Our Vitaeris320 chamber is one of the largest portable chambers available — with five viewing windows and ample space for comfortable movement — designed to minimize feelings of confinement. Our technicians are trained to help patients relax and manage any discomfort. If anxiety is a concern, please discuss it with our team when you call (916) 446-2591.

Can I have an HBOT session if I have a cold or sinus infection?

No. If you have any cold or flu symptoms, fever, nasal congestion, sinus congestion, or chest congestion, please reschedule your HBOT session. These conditions can increase the risk of barotrauma (pressure-related ear and sinus discomfort) during the session. Call (916) 446-2591 to reschedule as soon as possible.

Do I need a prescription or doctor’s evaluation before starting HBOT?

Yes. All patients at Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center must be evaluated by one of our naturopathic doctors before beginning HBOT. This evaluation ensures that treatment is safe and appropriate for your specific condition and rules out any contraindications. We offer a free 15-minute consultation to get started — call (916) 446-2591 today.

Are there any conditions that would prevent me from using HBOT?

Yes, there are certain contraindications to HBOT that our doctors screen for during your evaluation. These include untreated pneumothorax (collapsed lung), certain ear and sinus conditions, some types of chemotherapy, and a few other medical situations. Your naturopathic doctor at Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center will conduct a thorough health review to ensure HBOT is safe for you before authorizing treatment.