Bladder and genitourinary symptoms can arise from different conditions, including infection, bladder pain syndrome and tissue damage after pelvic radiotherapy. Symptoms such as pain, urgency or blood in the urine need assessment to identify the cause before treatment is chosen.
The evidence for HBOT is strongest in particular diagnoses, rather than urinary symptoms in general. Radiation cystitis is a form of delayed radiation injury. Follow-up from the RICH-ART trial found that symptom improvements after HBOT were sustained in many treated patients over five years; the long-term phase did not retain an untreated comparison group because control participants were offered treatment.
Research on interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome is more preliminary. Evidence for radiation cystitis should not be generalized to infections, incontinence or other urinary disorders. HBOT suitability therefore depends on the confirmed diagnosis and a plan agreed with the treating clinician.
Conditions affecting the bladder or urinary tract that can cause pain, urgency, bleeding or other symptoms.
Cancer arising in breast tissue, with treatment tailored to the tumour type, stage and individual patient.
Delayed brain tissue injury after radiation therapy that can cause swelling and neurological symptoms.
Late tissue damage after radiation therapy that can cause poor healing, fibrosis or tissue breakdown.
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