What breathing technique is recommended during the descent and ascent in a hyperbaric chamber?

The recommended breathing technique during the descent and ascent in a hyperbaric chamber is controlled and regulated breathing. This method is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, controlled breathing helps to maintain stable pressure in the lungs. It prevents the risk of lung overexpansion injuries, which can occur if a diver holds their breath during ascent when pressure decreases. By breathing steadily, you allow the lungs to naturally adjust to changing pressures without accumulating excessive gas that could lead to barotrauma.

Furthermore, regulated breathing promotes better oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal from the body. Hyperbaric treatments are often utilized to manage conditions such as decompression sickness and carbon monoxide poisoning, where efficient gas exchange is essential for recovery. Therefore, practicing a controlled breathing technique aids in both the effectiveness of the hyperbaric treatment and the safety of the individual undergoing the therapy.

Choosing a breathing pattern that is steady and well-regulated ensures that the body can adapt to pressure changes effectively and mitigate any potential complications associated with rapid pressure fluctuations.