Im so sorry to read of all your recent issues!!! Its absolutely horrible after what we all have been thru to have on-going problems years later. To me it sounds like if you were able to overcome the ear pressure problem the rest of your issues may fade and not be so bothersome. At least I hope that would be the case.

I have a question for you... Did you get tubes put in your ears prior to starting HBO? Ive done many, many HBO dives. Ive also attempted far too many dives where I couldnt handle the ear pressure and wasted too much time trying unsuccessfully to do the HBO treatment until I finally gave in and got the tubes. Its very common for patients to experience intense ear pressure when first starting HBO. Its just like anything else, your body needs to get used to it and adapt. But if you do not have tubes in your ears, that would explain why you are having so much trouble adjusting to the pressure. Some facilities make it mandatory every patient must get tubes in their ears prior to any HBO treatments. You should have a special HBO doctor check you weekly and a HBO tech check your vitals prior to and after every dive. The HBO doctor should have treated other OC patients, they should have knowledge about your special needs due to being an OC survivor. Your ENT should be able to put the tubes in your ears in an out-patient surgery. Some patients are even able to have the procedure done right in their ENTs office. After everything you have already been thru getting tubes in your ears should be a piece of cake. To me it was one of the easiest things Ive ever done.

If you are overly anxious about the HBO dives that can also be working against you. HBO should be a relaxing time where you can take a nap or watch TV or movies. Your treatment facility should have TVs available for their HBO patients. If you dont see them.... ask! The first time I did HBO, I watched almost the entire series of the Sopranos. If you have anxiety meds I suggest taking one before going to your HBO session. If you arent on them, see your family doc and get started on some meds. Its nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of, its very common for OC patients/survivors to struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc. Think of anxiety meds as another tool to help you get thru the rough times. HBOs benefits far outweigh the negatives, at least they did for me. You are not alone with having trouble adapting to doing the HBO dives, Ive heard similar things from many other OC patients/survivors. But, with a little help they were all able to complete their treatments and I have faith you can too.

I hope I was able to help you to overcome some of the obstacles you have been facing. Dont be a stranger!!! Many of our members have been in similar situations and have other ideas to help you get past this temporary bump in the road. Its ok to ask questions, rant, vent, or to lean on us. We understand. OC stinks (to put it mildly), every single thing about it is horrible. We all get it and are here to help. Dont ever forget your very extended online "family" supports you and is always here to cheer you on. Good luck!!!!


PS... Oops!!! I almost forgot about your problems with eating. You know how important it is to get balanced nutrition! If you cant eat then you must drink. Heres something I post to help patients who are having problems eating---

Milkshakes and smoothies are easier going down than many things. Also try ensure or boost to try taking in the most balanced diet as possible. The following list should help you to find things you can eat easily like canned peaches (these will slide right down) or cream soups. I also enjoyed yoo-hoo and chocolate milk during rads and recovery, plus the extra calories sure didnt hurt. You may find that would help you too.


List of Easy to Eat Foods

Here is a recipe for something I used to make and drink when I went thru treatments and recovery in 2007. This shake has anywhere from 1500-2200 calories depending on how its made. The list of easy to eat foods may help you too, they mostly have a smoother texture and are easier to eat than most other foods.


(All measurements are estimates)

Giant High Calorie Choc-Peanut Butter Milkshake

3 or 4 cups chocolate ice cream (regular/full fat type)
2 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth type)
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1 or 2 cups whole milk (can substitute half and half to add even more calories)
1 scoop carnation instant breakfast
1 scoop high protein whey powder (check with doc if this is ok)

Blend this extra long to make it very smooth and creamy so it goes down easier. If the shake is too thick, add more milk to thin it down to whatever consistency works best for you.


PPS... Centrum has an adult liquid multivitamin out. Ive been taking it daily for about 3 months and can honestly say its helped me tremendously. Maybe you could try them? I think taking a multivitamin would be a big help to you. You really need this, especially with your recent challenges you have had with eating. When you feel good and strong it helps you to better manage everything else as well.