Tratamiento con cámara hiperbárica en pacientes con fatiga y su relación con la ocupación laboral.

Abstract

Introduction Fatigue is a discomfort caused by prolonged exertion, often referred to as tiredness, exhaustion, or weakness. There is no clear consensus on its treatment, and novel therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen can be used to prevent its chronicity. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric chamber (HBC) treatment for work-related fatigue. Methodology: Longitudinal, prospective study conducted from April to July 2024. Non-probability sampling was performed in the total population of 95 patients treated with CHB; a sample of 20 patients reported fatigue. The FAS fatigue scale (survey) was used before and after therapy. Tables were used to record results. Statistical and analytical methods included mean and standard deviation, Student's t test for independent samples, and pre- and post-intervention, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA); p < 0.05 was statistically significant, and SPSS version 27 software was used. Results: Following CHB therapy, a significant improvement in daily activity and perceptions of physical and mental exhaustion was observed (p < 0.001); a positive effect was seen in reducing fatigue, improving energy, and improving overall well-being. Discussion: As in this publication, in 2020, improvement in fatigue was shown in 49 patients because of CHB, with regulation of the metabolism of substances associated with fatigue. In our case, the oxygen dose and duration of exposure were adjusted to avoid complications, personalize oxygen therapy, and correctly identify individual benefits, as in other studies where 100% oxygen was used. Conclusions: CHB therapy may be a new treatment modality for managing fatigue in the working population, improving their quality of life, reducing absenteeism, and becoming part of occupational wellness programs. However, further studies with larger sample sizes, longer follow-up periods, and a greater number of sessions are needed.