Types of therapy
At Paracelsus Recovery, our treatment programmes include cutting-edge therapy, intermittent hypoxic-hyperoxic treatment (IHHT), when appropriate. IHHT is a non-invasive procedure that will restore your health at the cellular level.
What is IHHT?
Intermittent hypoxic-hyperoxic treatment (IHHT) is a non-invasive and safe procedure that has been proven to improve oxygen levels and stress resistance in the body. It involves breathing in hypoxic (low oxygen) and hyperoxic (high oxygen) air at varying intervals through a mask using a specialised machine. IHHT is a very relaxing procedure that takes about an hour per session. The client lies or sits down in a comfortable position and inhales the highly controlled air mixture through the mask. This process simulates the effects of high-altitude training, triggering the health benefits without a need to climb a mountain.
IHHT works by destroying damaged mitochondria and allowing our cells to regenerate new, healthier mitochondria. Mitochondria, also known as the “powerhouses of the cell,” provide us with energy. The interaction between oxygen levels and mitochondria is what allows life to exist. However, when we are under a lot of stress, this puts an immense strain on our mitochondria, which can cause damage. IHHT aims to repair such damage by protecting and rejuvenating the cells in our body. It does this by causing a mild amount of stress on the respiratory system through depriving it of oxygen in short, controlled bursts. The drop in oxygen stimulates an internal defence mechanism, a natural process of cellular ‘fine-tuning’. This involves removing damaged mitochondria and boosting the production of new, healthier mitochondria. As a result, IHHT is able to improve our quality of life by focusing on its very core; the cellular interaction between the environment and our bodies.
IHHT potential as a holistic treatment for internal imbalances make it an impactful addition to Paracelsus Recovery’s unique treatment method. We are the only treatment centre in Switzerland offering IHHT for mental health issues. By doing so, we ensure that we are providing the most advanced and comprehensive treatment available.
What is IHHT helpful for?
Intermittent hypoxic-hyperoxic treatment (IHHT) boosts our energy levels at a molecular level. It has the potential to significantly improve our stress resistance, as well as our cells’ ability to regenerate and stimulate our nervous system. These changes to our bodies will result in a slew of positive effects, including better sleep, increased cognitive abilities, increased stamina and an overall higher quality of life. The benefits of IHHT make it a helpful element of holistic treatment for a variety of conditions. For example, it alleviates fatigue symptoms caused by stress, chronic fatigue syndrome, burnout, depression and insomnia. IHHT also has numerous physical health benefits, which can help improve cardiovascular performance, metabolism, respiratory diseases and our immune system.
In addition, IHHT is beneficial for treating addictions. Toxic substances and the addictive cycle place immense stress on the body, resulting in biochemical deficits. As part of an elaborate biochemical treatment plan, IHHT helps repair damage on both psychological and cellar levels. In doing so, the cellular interplay at the very core of addiction can be restored to a state of balance and the body can re-discover its natural equilibrium.
While IHHT is a safe procedure for the majority of people, it is not appropriate for everyone. During an initial clinical assessment, our clinical team will determine the appropriateness of this intervention. While severe hypoxia can be harmful to our health, short bursts of moderate hypoxia are only beneficial. It is similar to stress; while prolonged stress can lead to burnout, short bursts of stress are necessary to keep us focused and alert.
Is IHHT evidence-based?
Intermittent hypoxic-hyperoxic treatment (IHHT) is at the cutting edge of scientific advancement. For example, the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to two scientists who discovered that consuming oxygen in a low supply for short periods of time rejuvenates the body. A growing body of research has since discovered that IHHT is beneficial to both our physical and psychological health. For example, a 2023 review of studies into IHHT found evidence of its efficacy in treating a variety of conditions.
Furthermore, a 2017 study highlights the numerous beneficial effects of the state of mild molecular stress produced by intervals of moderate hypoxia. Among these benefits are improved insulin sensitivity, relaxed blood vessels and increased oxygen production and its anti-inflammatory effect. Similarly, a 2014 study suggested short, controlled intervals of moderate hypoxia can produce a beneficial form of stress on the body. To adapt to the stress and lowering oxygen levels, the body implements
the most economically efficient use of oxygen. In so doing, the body begins to produce a form of ‘quality control’ on the mitochondrial process. The result is a finely-tuned balance between the elimination of damaged cells and the generation of new mitochondria. Consequently, the adaptation to intermittent hypoxia increases the body’s resistance to emotional stress and intense exercise in addition to strengthening the immune system.
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