Before booking hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it is reasonable to ask: “Is it suitable for me? What risks should I understand?” Answering these questions requires a medical assessment of your reason for seeking treatment, medical history and current care.

This guide helps you prepare for that conversation. For practical information about visiting, see our first-session guide.

Contraindications and side effects are different

A contraindication is a circumstance that may prevent treatment or require a careful assessment with additional precautions. A side effect is a reaction that may occur during or after treatment. Understanding the difference can help you discuss your concerns without assuming that a medical condition automatically rules treatment out.

An important contraindication: untreated pneumothorax

University of Iowa Health Care identifies untreated pneumothorax as an absolute contraindication to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This is air in the space around a lung; pressure changes can make the problem worse. Its management requires medical care.

If you have had a pneumothorax, lung disease or chest surgery, tell the team when requesting an assessment and bring any available reports. Do not decide on your own whether you can enter a chamber.

What to discuss before starting

Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights lung conditions, recent ear surgery or injury, and a cold or fever as issues to review. Tell the team if these symptoms develop after booking: they need to decide whether reassessment or postponement is appropriate.

The UHMS recommends checking medicines and medical devices for possible interactions with the hyperbaric environment. Prepare an up-to-date list, including items you might think are unrelated. Do not stop or change medication for your visit without instructions from the clinician responsible for it.

Questions to take to your assessment:

  • Which parts of my medical history do you need to review?
  • Should I bring results from tests I have already had?
  • What should I do if I have a cold or feel unwell on the day?
  • How do I tell you if I feel discomfort inside the chamber?

Possible side effects

Mayo Clinic describes ear discomfort or pressure injuries, sinus pain and temporary vision changes. Blood sugar can fall in people with diabetes treated with insulin. Less common serious complications include lung injury and oxygen-related seizures.

Report any discomfort to staff during treatment. Your explanation before treatment should cover monitoring and what to do if you are worried. A short checklist cannot rule out every individual risk.

What if I have claustrophobia or anxiety?

Being in an enclosed space can cause anxiety, as Mayo Clinic explains. Discuss this before booking. Ask the team to describe the space, how you can communicate with staff and how your situation would be assessed. Avoid taking medication on your own to cope with the session.

Safety also depends on how treatment is delivered

The FDA highlights safety measures for hyperbaric devices, including trained staff, continuous supervision, maintenance and following manufacturer instructions. Concentrated oxygen increases fire risk, so rules apply to clothing, belongings and devices.

Confirm the centre’s instructions before arriving. You can read about HMCE’s Perry medical chambers and ask how care is organised.

Prepare for an assessment at HMCE in Estepona

If you are considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the next step is to discuss whether it fits your medical care. Gather your reports, medication list and questions. Ask about the assessment fee and an estimate if treatment is proposed.

HMCE provides care at Avenida de España, 242, Estepona. If you are travelling, see our information for patients from Málaga or Marbella.

Ask about arranging an assessment or call +34 952 80 67 96. The team can explain which documents to bring.

Sources consulted on 28 September 2026: University of Iowa Health Care, hyperbaric oxygen resources for providers; Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic, precautions and side effects; UHMS, physician duties in hyperbaric medicine (2024); FDA safety communication of 25 August 2025. This information does not replace an individual medical assessment or prescription.