Case Report
Management of Referred Case of Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome with Obstructive Sleep Apnea of Morbidly Obese Patient: A Case Report
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
28-32
Received:
10 January 2025
Accepted:
5 February 2025
Published:
2 September 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijcems.20251103.11
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Abstract: Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is a serious condition characterized by obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), daytime hypercapnia (PaCO2 ≥ 45 mmHg), and sleep-disordered breathing, without other identifiable causes of reduced alveolar ventilation, such as lung or neuromuscular disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines morbid obesity as a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2, which significantly increases the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and poses challenges in airway management. This case report discusses the successful management of a morbidly obese patient (BMI = 51.3 kg/m2) suffering from hypoventilation and sleep apnea. Initially, the patient received continuous oxygen therapy via nasal prongs, but as symptoms worsened—marked by poor sleep quality and a significant drop in oxygen saturation at night—non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) were introduced. Proper positioning was also maintained to optimize breathing and prevent further deterioration. Despite the increased risk of prolonged ICU stays and extended mechanical ventilation in morbidly obese patients, this case demonstrates that a multimodal conservative approach can lead to successful outcomes within a short period. It highlights the effectiveness of non-surgical interventions in managing OHS and OSA while emphasizing the importance of early referral to specialized healthcare centers for timely and effective treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Abstract: Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is a serious condition characterized by obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), daytime hypercapnia (PaCO2 ≥ 45 mmHg), and sleep-disordered breathing, without other identifiable causes of reduced alveolar ventilation, such as lung or neuromuscular disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines morbid obesity as a BM...
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,
Bishaka Adhikari
