Supporting Scleroderma with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

A Regenerative Therapy for an Autoimmune Disease That Affects Skin, Circulation, and Organs.

Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a rare but serious autoimmune condition. While its exact cause remains unknown, the disease is marked by inflammation and excessive fibrosis, which leads to the hardening and tightening of the skin and, in more severe forms, damage to internal organs.

At Noah Clinics, we offer Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a noninvasive treatment that supports improved circulation, tissue repair, and reduced inflammation. The treatment is not a cure, but it offers meaningful support for managing scleroderma symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

Understanding Scleroderma

Scleroderma presents in two main forms: limited and diffuse.

Limited Scleroderma (CREST Syndrome):
This form includes five hallmark symptoms:

  • Calcinosis cutis: Calcium deposits under the skin.
  • Raynaud’s phenomenon: Poor circulation in the fingers, often triggered by cold.
  • Esophageal dysmotility: Difficulty swallowing.
  • Sclerodactyly: Tightened skin and finger shortening.
  • Telangiectasias: Small red vessels visible under the skin.

Diffuse Scleroderma:
In more severe cases, fibrosis may affect major organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. This form carries a higher risk of life-threatening complications.

Scleroderma is driven by the immune system attacking the body’s tissues. Current treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing progression. However, many therapies have limited impact on reversing fibrosis or preventing disfigurement.

How The Therapy Supports Patients with Scleroderma

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy works by saturating the bloodstream with pure oxygen in a pressurized environment.

This increases oxygen delivery to tissues and reduces systemic inflammation, which may be especially helpful in autoimmune conditions like scleroderma.

Potential benefits of HBOT for scleroderma include:

  • Reduction of inflammatory markers and cytokines.
  • Stimulation of anti-inflammatory and regulatory immune responses.
  • Support for new blood vessel formation (neovascularization).
  • Improved circulation to extremities and skin.
  • Enhanced healing of ulcers, wounds, and damaged tissues.
  • Improved oxygenation in fibrotic lungs and support for pulmonary function.
  • Modulation of fibroblasts to help reduce ongoing tissue fibrosis.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment is not intended to replace standard therapy but can be used alongside medications to address multiple aspects of this complex disease. Patients have reported improvements in pain, wound healing, circulation, and respiratory symptoms. Clinical studies are ongoing, but results so far are promising.

HBOT and Scleroderma: Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is scleroderma?

    Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that causes the skin and internal organs to harden due to excessive collagen and fibrosis. It can affect the skin, blood vessels, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system.

  • How does HBOT help with scleroderma?

    Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, promotes tissue healing, and helps regulate immune activity. It may also reduce fibrosis and improve oxygen delivery to affected areas.

  • What symptoms can it help with?

    Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy may support the healing of ulcers and wounds, improve circulation in Raynaud’s phenomenon, reduce joint pain, support lung function, and ease tightness in the skin.

  • Is it safe for people with autoimmune diseases?

    Yes. HBOT is well tolerated and has been used in many autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. Patients are medically screened before starting treatment.

  • How many sessions are typically needed?

    A typical course may range from 20 to 40 sessions, depending on the severity of symptoms and how the patient responds. Some conditions may require ongoing maintenance sessions.

  • Can HBOT be used with standard treatments?

    Yes. it works best when integrated into a comprehensive care plan alongside medications prescribed by your rheumatologist or other specialists.

Improving Quality of Life for Scleroderma Patients

While scleroderma presents complex challenges, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy offers a supportive option for patients seeking relief from pain, tissue damage, and organ-related symptoms. At Noah Clinics, we are committed to working alongside your care team to deliver personalized support through safe, effective treatment.

Contact us today to learn how HBOT can help support your journey with scleroderma.

OR CALL US

+1 (212) 981 5557