A Balanced Look at Safety Considerations
EBOO (Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation) is considered a promising and well-tolerated procedure when performed by trained professionals. However, like any medical treatment—especially one that involves extracorporeal blood circulation—it comes with potential risks and side effects, particularly if not administered properly.
1. Blood Clotting or Bleeding Issues
Since EBOO requires blood to circulate outside the body, anticoagulants (usually heparin) are used to prevent clots.
- Risk: Too much anticoagulant may lead to bruising or bleeding. Too little may lead to clot formation in the tubing.
- Prevention: Dosing is adjusted carefully by medical professionals based on your individual health profile.
2. Low Blood Pressure (also known as hypotension)
Some patients may experience a drop in blood pressure during or after treatment.
- Why: Fluid shifts, vascular response to ozone, or individual sensitivity.
- Recommendation: Those with chronic hypotension should be evaluated and closely monitored.
3. Sensitivity to Ozone
Although ozone is used in a controlled medical setting, it may cause oxidative stress in rare cases.
- Symptoms: Headache, fatigue, or mild nausea.
- Note: This is more common in individuals with impaired antioxidant systems or excessive exposure.
4. Infection Risk (Minimal)
As with any intravenous procedure, there’s a minor risk of infection at the catheter insertion site.
- Prevention: Use of sterile equipment, trained staff, and one-time-use tubing dramatically reduces this risk.
5. Electrolyte or Nutrient Imbalance (Rare)
Although EBOO is not designed to strip the blood of nutrients, prolonged or excessive sessions may influence electrolyte levels in some individuals.
- Recommendation: Ensure adequate hydration and nutritional support, especially with repeated sessions.
6. Discomfort or Fatigue After Treatment
Some patients report mild flu-like symptoms, temporary fatigue, or a “healing crisis” after initial treatments.
- Cause: This may reflect the body’s detox response or immune modulation.
- Management: Usually self-resolving within 24–48 hours.
Who Should Not Receive EBOO?
EBOO is generally not recommended for individuals with:
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders
- Severe anemia
- Acute infections or sepsis
- Allergy to heparin or anticoagulant medications
- Pregnancy (precautionary)
To summarize
When performed correctly in a clinical setting, EBOO is considered safe for most individuals, with side effects being rare and usually mild. However, individual risk must always be evaluated by a medical professional before starting treatment.