Radiation therapy is a common cancer treatment, but it can lead to delayed side effects, such as radiation-induced fibrosis or tissue damage, appearing months or years later. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been studied as a treatment for these late effects.
According to the National Cancer Institute, late effects of radiation therapy can include fibrosis, lymphedema, and secondary cancers. HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which may promote healing in damaged tissues.
Research, such as a 2023 review in Frontiers in Oncology, suggests HBOT can improve symptoms of radiation-induced tissue injury, including osteoradionecrosis and cystitis. However, evidence is still evolving, and HBOT is not a standard treatment for all radiation side effects.
Patients should consult their oncologist to discuss potential late effects and treatment options. Clinical trials continue to evaluate HBOT's efficacy for various radiation-induced conditions.
