Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) are conditions that can significantly affect memory, independence, and quality of life. Traditional treatments offer limited support, leaving many families searching for complementary options. Recent studies suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may provide meaningful improvements for those experiencing cognitive decline.
How HBOT Supports Brain Function
Environmental factors such as hypoxia (low oxygen levels) are believed to contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. HBOT, which increases oxygen supply to tissues, may counteract this effect and improve overall brain health.
In a study of 42 patients with Alzheimer’s disease, 11 patients with aMCI, and 30 Alzheimer’s controls, participants underwent daily HBOT sessions (40 minutes each) for 20 days. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale before treatment and at follow-ups after one, three, and six months.
Key Findings from the Study
- Improved cognition: Alzheimer’s patients who received HBOT showed significant gains in MMSE and MoCA scores at one month, with improvements lasting up to three months.
- aMCI benefits: Patients with mild cognitive impairment experienced notable improvements in both MMSE and MoCA scores, particularly in the early months following treatment.
- Enhanced daily living: AD patients demonstrated improvements on the ADL scale, showing a positive impact on real-world functioning.
- Brain metabolism support: Imaging with PET scans revealed that HBOT improved glucose metabolism in several patients, a marker of healthier brain activity.
Compared to control Alzheimer’s patients who did not receive HBOT, those who did showed significantly better outcomes, suggesting a clear benefit from treatment.
Looking Toward HBOT as a Supportive Option
These results highlight the potential of hyperbaric oxygen for Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment as a supportive therapy. By improving oxygen delivery, reducing the effects of hypoxia, and supporting brain metabolism, HBOT may help slow the progression of cognitive decline and improve daily quality of life.
While more large-scale studies are needed, families and caregivers can find hope in this research. HBOT may represent a promising alternative pathway in the fight against dementia.
Check out the PubMed article here: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7293997/
