What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed published experimental and clinical studies to summarize what is currently known about the potential role of HBOT as a supporting treatment for asthma.
What They Found
Preclinical and small clinical studies suggest HBOT may reduce airway inflammation, lower oxidative stress, modulate immune responses, and improve lung function in asthma. However, existing clinical evidence is limited and inconclusive, no large randomized controlled trials have confirmed whether HBOT works for asthma. Potential risks include barotrauma and oxygen toxicity.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Over 3 million Canadians have asthma, and many still have poorly controlled symptoms despite standard medications. While HBOT for asthma is not currently a proven treatment, this review identifies it as a candidate for future study. Canadians with severe or steroid-resistant asthma should watch for clinical trials in this area.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified. HBOT for asthma is not OHIP-covered in Ontario.
Study Limitations
This is a narrative review without a systematic methodology, and the clinical evidence it draws from consists mostly of small, poorly designed studies.