Evaluating the Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Cognitive Function, Mental Health, and Quality of Life in Veterans

Summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate how hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may affect cognitive functioning, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and overall quality of life in veterans. 1. Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy improve cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, and quality of life among veterans, as measured by pre-and post-treatment scores? 2. To what extent does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy improve cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, and qualify of life among veterans, after controlling for demographic characteristics.

Eligibility

Age range

18–75 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

No

Interventions

• Drug
  Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

  Each HBOT session is scheduled for approximately 95 minutes. The session will begin with a descent of up to 15 minutes (longer if needed for comfort/safety) to a pressure of 2.0 ATA, followed by 30 minutes of breathing 100% oxygen. At the midpoint, there will be a 5-minute air break from oxygen, after which subjects resume breathing 100% oxygen for another 30 minutes. Finally, the session will conclude with an ascent of up to 15 minutes (longer if needed for comfort/safety) back to 1.0 ATA. All sessions are delivered under direct medical supervision with standardized safety protocols. Once approved after medical and behavioral screening, participants complete a battery of cognitive, mental health, and quality of life assessments at baseline (pre-) and after completing the therapy (post-). This arm is distinct from any sham or control interventions because all participants receive the active HBOT treatment.

Location