What Researchers Did
Researchers reported on a 21-year-old patient who suffered carbon monoxide poisoning from smoking a waterpipe and was treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
What They Found
The patient presented with a carbon monoxide-haemoglobin level of 30% after smoking a waterpipe and experienced a brief loss of consciousness. Following hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the patient reported no lasting effects like heart problems or concentration issues two and a half years later. Despite increased awareness of the risks, their waterpipe smoking habits did not significantly change.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers carbon monoxide poisoning, which is a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a case report, this study's findings are based on a single patient, limiting their generalizability to a wider population.