Summary of the Article
The mode of action of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is still not understood. However, HBO has been recommended for various health problems including radiation damages and gas embolism (Ghanizadeh, 2012). Additionally, it is suggested that intracranial abscess and contaminations caused by carbon monoxide can be treated through HBO. Patients undergoing this therapy experience both positive and negative side effects. On the positive side, it fastens the production of different types of reactive oxygen used in the body. Conversely, it has an effect on the middle ear barotraumas (Neubauer & Walker, 1998).
Autism is a mental disorder, which mainly affects little children and other age groups. Unfortunately, people affected by autism cannot properly associate or communicate with others within society (Ghaziuddin, 2005). Besides, this disease cannot be treated. However, a few recommended drugs manufactured to control its symptoms are available. Since the disease cannot be cured, it is vital to obtain another therapeutic option. Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been recommended, its efficiency is still questionable. Conversely, many studies have been carried out to validate the efficiency of this therapy. Besides, all the studies carried out did not support the effectiveness of this hyperbaric oxygen therapy except one.
Validity of the Study
Critically, various studies carried out on hyperbaric oxygen therapy show positive responses. Consequently, information from different authors indicates that there is massive progress in the general operation and receptive language. In addition, there was a great improvement in public relations and eye contact (Ghanizadeh, 2012). The overall ABC score and the ratio of irritability in HBO had greatly improved. In other studies, there was excellent toleration of symptoms. Clinical global impression also widened according to its average scores (clinical global impression).
The Quantity of the Sample Size
It is arguable that the size of the samples used in the study was small. Thus, this might have been the reason for the negative results. Besides, few patients participated in the study. Some patients withdrew while others were simply not assessed. Conversely, out of the 46 patients, only 16 were treated, with some withdrawing after an attack while others were simply not included in the analysis.
Accuracy of the Conclusions
Critically, the conclusions made by the authors were relatively flawed. Varying outcomes were supporting the validity of this therapy. The tests carried out did not involve a placebo group (Ghanizadeh, 2012). Conversely, the authors were not able to comprehensively conclude on the capability of this therapy to treat autism. Some controlled trials have prompted further clinical trials to achieve more accurate results. Critically, the conclusions were inaccurate since the serious consequences were hardly accounted for in the controlled studies.
Use of the Scientific Methods
Critically, the studies carried out were mainly scientific since most of the tests were being done in pressurized rooms. Additionally, therapeutic treatments mostly involve science and the use of scientific machines. Besides, the vocal sensitivity, sensory needs, and monitoring of the disordered behavior of the patients are determined scientifically. This is a critical provision when scrutinized critically regarding the functionality and applicability of HBO.
How the article is understandable
The article is easily comprehensible. It indicates how significant improvements in speech and social relations can be obtained. Additionally, the article can be read and understood without any complications since the author had approved its final copy.
References
Ghanizadeh, A. (2012).Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for treatment of children with autism: a systematic review of randomized trials. Web.
Ghaziuddin, M. (2005). Mental health aspects of autism and Asperger Syndrome. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Neubauer, R. & Walker, M. (1998). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Pub. Group.