Your First HBOT Session · ReWell Naas
What Happens During an HBOT Session?
If you've never been inside a hyperbaric chamber, the idea can sound far more intimidating than the actual experience.
Most of your session is simply time spent resting inside the chamber while pressure and oxygen are carefully controlled around you.
Here's what to expect before, during and after your first HBOT session at ReWell in Naas, Co. Kildare.
Before You Arrive
Your First Visit Starts Before You Enter the Chamber
Your introductory session is not simply a case of arriving, climbing into a chamber and switching it on.
Before HBOT begins, ReWell considers relevant health history, medications and anything that could affect your ability to use a pressurised chamber safely.
You'll also be talked through what the session involves, how pressure equalisation works and what you can and cannot take into the chamber.
That means that when the chamber begins to pressurise, you already know what to expect.
Step by Step
What Your First HBOT Session Looks Like
The exact chamber setup can vary, but the basic journey follows the same pattern.
Arrival & Pre-Session Conversation
Your first appointment starts with a conversation about why you're exploring HBOT and any relevant health or safety information.
This is also your opportunity to ask questions before anything begins.
Getting Ready
Before entering the chamber, you'll follow ReWell's chamber-specific safety instructions.
Electronics, batteries and other unsuitable items remain outside, and you'll be shown how to position yourself comfortably inside.
Pressurisation
Once you're settled, the pressure inside the chamber begins to increase gradually.
This is the part of the session where you're most likely to notice a physical sensation — particularly in your ears.
Time at Pressure
Once the chamber reaches the planned pressure, the sensation of pressure changing settles.
You can then relax while the chamber maintains the treatment environment for the planned exposure period.
Gradual Depressurisation
At the end of the session, chamber pressure is gradually reduced back towards normal atmospheric pressure.
You may notice your ears adjusting again as the pressure changes.
Post-Session Check-In
Your introductory ReWell session includes a post-session check-in and guidance about what — if anything — you might want to do next.
That may simply mean leaving it there, continuing with clinic sessions or discussing regular home access.
The Part Most People Notice
What Does Pressurisation Feel Like?
The sensation is usually most noticeable in your ears.
As chamber pressure increases, your ears need to equalise with the surrounding pressure. Many people compare it to what happens during an aircraft take-off or landing.
You are shown how to equalise before the session begins.
If equalisation becomes uncomfortable, pressurisation can be slowed or paused rather than expecting you to simply push through pain.
Once the Chamber Reaches Pressure
What Do You Actually Do During HBOT?
Mostly, You Relax
Once the pressure has stabilised, the changing-pressure sensation usually settles. The remainder of the exposure is generally quiet time inside the chamber while the planned pressure and oxygen delivery are maintained.
The Setup Can Vary
Hyperbaric chambers come in different formats and pressure ranges. Lying, seated, soft-shell and hard-shell systems can therefore feel slightly different, even though the underlying principle of controlled pressure and oxygen exposure is the same.
Coming Back to Normal Pressure
What Happens During Depressurisation?
At the end of the planned exposure, pressure inside the chamber is reduced gradually.
Your ears may once again need to adjust as the chamber returns towards normal atmospheric pressure.
Once pressure has fully normalised, the chamber can be opened and you can get out.
There is no dramatic “end” to the session. For most people it is simply a gradual return to normal pressure, followed by getting up and continuing with the rest of the day.
After Your Session
How Will You Feel Afterwards?
There is no single sensation everyone experiences after HBOT.
Many people simply leave the chamber and continue with their day. Some people report feeling relaxed, while temporary tiredness can also occur.
Individual responses vary, particularly when HBOT becomes part of a repeated programme rather than a single introductory session.
Your first ReWell visit therefore includes a post-session check-in so you can discuss how the session felt and any questions you have before deciding what comes next.
What Should You Bring?
Clothing, Phones & Personal Items
Hyperbaric environments have specific safety rules, so do not assume that everything you normally carry with you can simply go into the chamber.
Your Introductory Visit
What Is Included in Your First ReWell Session?
New-Client Introductory Price
A straightforward way to experience HBOT without committing to a longer programme.
Pre-Session Consultation
Relevant health and safety information is reviewed and the chamber experience is explained before you begin.
Post-Session Check-In
Talk through how the session felt and whether further clinic sessions or another access option makes sense.
Guided From the Start
Your First HBOT Experience, Guided by Davitt
ReWell's HBOT programmes are guided by Davitt Meenaghan, IBUM-certified Hyperbaric Safety Officer.
“Most people feel much more comfortable once they know what the chamber is going to do. We explain the pressure, show you how to equalise and make sure you know what to expect before we start.”
Davitt's role is not simply to put you into a chamber. It is to help you understand the process, use HBOT safely and work out what level of access — if any — makes sense after your first experience.
Speak With Davitt →What Comes Next?
One Session Doesn't Lock You Into Anything
Your first session can simply be your first session. If you decide you want more regular HBOT access afterwards, ReWell gives you different ways to continue.
First-Session Questions
What to Expect From HBOT — FAQs
Does HBOT hurt?
HBOT should not simply be something you endure through pain. The main sensation during pressurisation is usually pressure in the ears. You are shown how to equalise, and pressure can be adjusted if you are having difficulty.
What does it feel like inside a hyperbaric chamber?
The changing pressure is most noticeable while the chamber is pressurising and depressurising. Once the planned pressure has been reached, the sensation generally settles and most of the session is simply time spent resting inside the chamber.
How long does an HBOT session take?
Session length can vary depending on the chamber and programme. Allow additional time for your first visit because screening, explanation, setup and the post-session check-in take place around the HBOT exposure itself.
What happens if I cannot equalise my ears?
Tell the person guiding your session. Pressurisation can be slowed or paused, and you can be guided through equalisation techniques. You should not feel that you need to push through significant ear pain.
Can I take my phone into the chamber?
ReWell does not permit phones, smartwatches or similar battery-powered personal electronic devices inside its hyperbaric chambers. Follow the chamber-specific instructions provided before your session.
What should I wear for my HBOT session?
Follow the clothing guidance ReWell gives you for the specific chamber being used. Hyperbaric safety requirements mean it is better to follow the supplied instructions rather than assuming ordinary clothing and personal items are suitable.
Can I drive after HBOT?
Many people simply continue with their day after an uncomplicated session. If you feel unusually tired, unwell, dizzy or experience any unexpected symptoms, discuss them with ReWell before driving or continuing normal activities.
Do I need to commit to a programme after my first session?
No. ReWell's introductory clinic session gives you an opportunity to experience HBOT before deciding whether you want further clinic sessions, regular home rental or no further HBOT at all.
Where is the ReWell HBOT clinic?
ReWell is located at Unit 3 Health and Fitness, Maudlings, Fishery Lane, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 XA50. The clinic is approximately 35 minutes from Dublin and has free parking on site.
Ready to Experience HBOT?
Your First Session Is the Easiest Way to Understand It
Start with a guided introductory HBOT session at ReWell in Naas for €50 + VAT. We'll explain the process, guide you through the pressure changes and check in with you afterwards — with no need to commit to anything further.
This article is for general educational purposes. The exact HBOT experience, chamber setup, pressure and session duration can vary. HBOT may not be suitable for everyone, and appropriate screening and chamber-specific safety guidance should take place before use.