Jay Leno, the well-known comedian and former host of The Tonight Show, suffered a severe injury in a fire that left him with third-degree burns covering 80% of his body. Despite receiving traditional medical treatment, Mr. Leno’s injuries continued to worsen and he even developed blood poisoning. Seeking a solution to his declining condition, he turned to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which proved to be a lifesaving choice.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves placing the patient in a pressurized chamber where they breathe 100% oxygen for several hours a day. During Mr. Leno’s therapy, doctors used pure oxygen to treat his burn wounds, providing the body with the energy it needed for recovery and reducing inflammation. The increased levels of oxygen in his blood and the adjustment of his blood’s pH level allowed his body to more effectively heal his wounds and fight infection. This treatment significantly decreased his need for painkillers and helped to drastically improve his chances of survival from this traumatic event.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is commonly used to treat post-burn injuries, as well as injuries resulting from fire, smoke, or gas exposure. By increasing blood flow, oxygen levels, enzyme activity, and regulating body temperature, this therapy can promote healing and reduce inflammation, particularly in painful wounds. Mr. Leno has continued to receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the Grossman Burn Center in Los Angeles, according to CNN, and has seen a significant improvement in his quality of life following his burns, allowing him to lead a relatively normal lifestyle despite his injuries.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy––just like what we offer at the Center for New Medicine––played a crucial role in Jay Leno’s recovery from severe burns. By increasing the amount of oxygen in his blood and treating his wounds with pure oxygen, this therapy significantly improved his chances of survival, reduced his need for painkillers, and promoted healing. As a versatile treatment that can be used for a variety of injuries and illnesses, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has become an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking alternative treatment options. Contact us for more information, or to schedule an appointment.