Possibilities of interval hypoxia in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The study evaluated the effectiveness of interval hypoxia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease receiving basic therapy. The study employed double-blind randomization with placebo control in two parallel groups of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Course interval hypoxic therapy (10 sessions) and screening laboratory and instrumental evaluation of its effectiveness were conducted initially and before discharge of the patient who received treatment, which included stress hypoxic-stress testing, computer spirography, general and biochemical blood tests. The study involved 22 patients with grade 2–3 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the phase of drug control, who had similar cardiovascular comorbid backgrounds and were randomly divided into equal groups. Ten sessions of interval hypoxic therapy in the main study group significantly reduced laboratory markers of inflammation, promote high-speed ventilation, and increased desaturation–reoxygenation indicators in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in comparison with the control group. During hypoxic training, an increase in the functional capabilities of the respiratory system indicated the probable sanogenic effects of hypoxia on the elasticity, extensibility, and resistance of the bronchopulmonary continuum, which can positively affect gas exchange by improving the diffusion–perfusion capabilities of the lungs. In general, the results correspond to modern concepts about the relationship between hypoxia and inflammation. The results can be used as a reference for the development of a promising approach, in addition to basic therapy, to prevent exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.