Hyperbaric Therapy in Blood Loss Anemia

Excerpt

Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, is the primary carrier of oxygen in the human body. A reduction in hemoglobin levels results in anemia, which can impair tissue oxygenation and lead to an oxygen debt. Clinical manifestations of this condition include tachycardia, dyspnea, fatigue, chest pain, and altered mental status. Laboratory findings may reveal metabolic acidosis, elevated lactate levels, and increased cardiac enzymes. Symptomatic patients are typically treated with packed red blood cell transfusions to restore oxygen-carrying capacity. However, transfusion may be contraindicated in certain individuals, such as those with massive autoimmune hemolysis or those who decline blood products for religious reasons. In such cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can enhance oxygen delivery to tissues and help relieve the symptoms of oxygen debt.