Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS)

Alternative Names

Treatment

The treatment involves breathing assistance using special machines (mechanical ventilation). Options include:

• Non-invasive mechanical ventilation (BiPAP or other modes) through a mask that fits tightly over the nose or nose and mouth (mainly for sleep)
• Mechanical ventilation through an incision in the neck (tracheostomy)
• Oxygen

Other treatments are aimed at weight loss, which can reverse OHS.

Support Groups

Support groups can help patients with OHS, or their family members, adjust to the lifestyle changes needed for treatment to be successful. Also, support groups can offer information about new treatments.

Outlook (Prognosis)

When treated, OHS has a good outcome (prognosis). Untreated, it can lead to serious heart and blood vessel problems, severe disability, or death.

Possible Complications

Complications of OHS have to do with a lack of sleep, such as:

• Increased risk for accidents
• Depression, agitation, irritability
• Sexual dysfunction

OHS can also include heart problems, such as:

• Hypertension
• Right heart failure (cor pulmonale)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you are very tired during the day, or have any other symptoms that suggest OHS.

References

Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 3^rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: W.B. Saunders Company; 2000:2326-2328.

Moore DP, Jefferson JW. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby, Inc; 2004:221-223.