Hydrogen inhalation in lung diseases has become of increasing interest to scientists and health enthusiasts in the past years. The concept of inhaling the molecular hydrogen (H2) gas as a potential therapy might not sound right at first, yet, there is an emergence of research that argues that it may have some factual value to people with specific respiratory illnesses.
What is hydrogen inhalation for lung diseases, and what does science tell us about the impact of hydrogen inhalation on the lungs? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Hydrogen Inhalation?
Hydrogen inhalation is inhaling of a blend of air and a little trace of hydrogen gas, typically with the use of a special apparatus referred to as a hydrogen inhaler or generator. These are machines that generate hydrogen gas that is combined with oxygen in harmless levels, usually 2 to 4 per cent and administered via a nasal cannula or a mask.
Hydrogen therapy has a theory which states that hydrogen molecules are antioxidants. Hydrogen is very small meaning that it can penetrate the cells with ease and counter toxic free radicals that induce inflammation and tissue damages.
It is this possible anti-inflammatory and protective action that has led to the investigation of hydrogen inhalation in such conditions as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and even in conditions related to COVID-19 induced lung damage.
The Science Behind Hydrogen Inhalation
The studies of hydrogen inhalation in the treatment of lung diseases are still rather new but develop at an accelerated pace. There are positive indications of a number of animal experiments and limited human trials.
For example:
- Reduction of inflammation: Research indicates that the inhalation of hydrogen gas could potentially lower the lung inflammation and oxidative stress. This may particularly be helpful to individuals with chronic lung diseases such as COPD or asthma, in which inflammation is a significant factor.
- Prevention of lung injury: There have been experiments on animals that indicate that hydrogen gas could be useful in protecting lung tissue against injuries caused by toxins, infections or mechanical ventilation.
- Better recovery: Hydrogen therapy has in some clinical environments, especially post-operative or in patients with pneumonia, been investigated as potentially accelerating the recovery and improving oxygen levels.
The study that was discussed the most was during the COVID-19 pandemic when Chinese researchers applied hydrogen-oxygen therapy to patients with breathing challenges.
It was proposed by some of the results that hydrogen inhalation might be used to alleviate the symptoms and improve oxygenation. These findings are however only preliminary and further studies are required to ascertain long term safety and efficacy.
Is Hydrogen Inhalation Safe?
Up to this time, inhalation of hydrogen seems to be safe as long as it is properly used. The gas is also non-toxic, odorless and does not react with oxygen at low concentration. In medical research, no severe side effects are reported.
But since high levels of hydrogen are flammable, it is highly essential to only use certified hydrogen inhalation machines, which are intended to be used for medical or fitness purposes. Home devices are to be treated with care and as per the instructions of the manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
The concept of hydrogen inhalation treatment of lung ailments is an exciting one and initial studies have some positive indications. The treatment can aid in the relief of inflammation process, lung cell protection, and the increase of breathing comfort. Nevertheless, it is important to realize that this area is still in its infancy – there is as yet not enough scientific data to render it a standard therapy.
In case you are thinking about trying inhalation of hydrogen, then you should always discuss it with your physician and you are not to do it without consulting him or her first, unless you have a pre-existing lung condition. Hydrogen therapy may soon join respiratory care with appropriate guidance and research in the future.
Concisely, inhalation of hydrogen still has the potential – however, it remains in research. The future is promising and future studies will enable us to have a better picture of how this simple molecule could aid in healthy lungs.
