Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Safe? What You Need to Know Before Booking in North London
A Complete Safety Guide for 1.5 ATA Soft Shell Chambers in North London
If you are new to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, one of the first questions you might ask is:
“Is it safe?”
The short answer is yes, when done correctly and at the right pressure.
At Just Breathe Hyperbarics in Muswell Hill, North London, we use soft shell mild hyperbaric chambers that operate safely at 1.5 ATA (atmospheres absolute) – a comfortable, evidence-based level designed for wellness, recovery, and overall vitality.
Below, we break down exactly how safe HBOT is, what to expect, and which medications or conditions require caution.
Understanding Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at 1.5 ATA
Unlike hospital-grade hard chambers that reach 2.4 to 3.0 ATA and are used for medical emergencies, our soft shell chambers gently increase air pressure to 1.5 ATA – about one and a half times normal atmospheric pressure.
During your session, you breathe oxygen-enriched air through a mask in a comfortable, climate-controlled chamber.
At this pressure, your body safely absorbs more oxygen into the blood plasma, helping to:
Speed up tissue repair and reduce inflammation
Boost energy and mental clarity
Support recovery from fatigue, injury or stress
The 1.5 ATA level is extremely safe and side effects are very rare and usually mild, such as temporary ear pressure or light fatigue.
Safety Profile of Soft Shell HBOT
At 1.5 ATA, the treatment is classified as mild hyperbaric therapy (mHBOT) and is considered non-invasive and well tolerated for most people.
Typical session conditions:
Pressure: 1.3 – 1.5 ATA
Duration: 60 – 90 minutes
Oxygen concentration: up to 98% via mask
An attendant is present and monitoring at all times
You can relax, read, or even nap during your session.
Possible short-term effects:
Mild ear pressure similar to airplane takeoff
Temporary fatigue after the first few sessions
Mild sinus pressure in people with congestion
These are typically short-lived and resolve quickly after the session.
Who Should Avoid or Delay HBOT
While HBOT at 1.5 ATA is generally safe, some people should avoid treatment or seek medical clearance first.
Absolute Contraindications
Untreated pneumothorax (collapse of a lung)
Severe COPD or emphysema with carbon-dioxide retention
Current ear or sinus infection causing blocked airways
High fever or uncontrolled seizure disorder
Relative Contraindications (require doctor’s clearance)
Recent ear surgery or perforated eardrum
Respiratory infections, sinusitis, or severe allergies
Uncontrolled heart failure or severe cardiac disease
Claustrophobia (mild cases can usually be accommodated)
Pregnancy (consult your GP or OB/GYN before starting)
Medications That May Interact With HBOT
Certain medications can alter how your body responds to oxygen therapy. Always tell your clinician about any prescriptions, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
Medications that may require caution:
Bleomycin (chemotherapy drug) may increase lung sensitivity to oxygen
Cisplatin (chemotherapy) may reduce oxygen benefit
Disulfiram (used for alcohol dependency) can increase oxygen sensitivity
Doxorubicin (chemotherapy) should not be taken immediately before HBOT
Mafenide acetate (topical burn cream) can interfere with oxygen absorption
High doses of steroids may reduce oxygen effect and require adjustment
If you are on any of these medications, our team will review your case and coordinate with your doctor before approving sessions.
How We Ensure Your Safety at Just Breathe Hyperbarics
Every client completes a health questionnaire and consultation before starting therapy
All sessions are supervised by trained staff who monitor pressure, oxygen, and comfort throughout
Chambers are cleaned and disinfected after every use
Clear pre-session and post-session instructions are provided for your peace of mind
How to Prepare for Your First HBOT Session
Eat a light meal before your appointment
Avoid alcohol, nicotine, or heavy caffeine beforehand
Wear comfortable cotton clothing
Arrive ten minutes early for a safety check
Drink water after your session to support oxygen circulation
Conclusion
HBOT in a soft shell 1.5 ATA chamber is one of the safest and most natural wellness therapies available today. When used responsibly under supervision, it can support healing, recovery, and performance without risk of major side effects.
If you would like to learn more about how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can support your wellness and recovery, please reach out via WhatsApp at 07748 086495.
📱 Message us today to ask a question or book your HBOT session.
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