Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO or HBOT, also called high dose oxygen therapy (HDOT)) involves breathing oxygen through a mask in a pressurised chamber, similar to a diving bell.

Whilst anecdotal reports suggest the treatment can be helpful for some people with MS, particularly with fatigue and bladder symptoms, research into hyperbaric oxygen therapy in multiple sclerosis has not found scientific evidence that it is effective.

In the UK, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is available through most MS Therapy Centres. Treatment usually consists of an initial course of around 20 sessions, each lasting an hour, spread over one month. Follow-up treatment is then needed at less frequent intervals.