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)
• Breathing help (tube) through an opening 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.

Expectations (prognosis):

Untreated, it can lead to serious heart and blood vessel problems, severe disability, or death. Chronic sleeping problems may also increase the chance of having a motor vehicle accident.

Complications:

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

• Increased risk for accidents or mistakes at work
• Depression, agitation, irritability
• Sexual dysfunction

OHS can also include heart problems, such as:

• Hypertension
• Right heart failure (cor pulmonale)

Calling your health care provider:

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