What is Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS)?

Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS) happens when extra body weight affects breathing. This condition makes it difficult for people to breathe deeply enough, especially at night, causing low oxygen and high carbon dioxide in the blood.

Key Points about OHS:

1. Causes:

   • Being very overweight puts pressure on the chest, making it hard for the lungs to expand fully.
   • This leads to shallow breathing and not enough air getting in and out of the lungs.

2. Symptoms:

   • People with OHS often feel very tired during the day.
   • They might have trouble focusing and may even fall asleep during activities.

3. Risks:

   • OHS can lead to serious health problems like heart issues and high blood pressure if not treated.

4. Treatment:

   • Losing weight can help improve breathing.
   • Special breathing machines at night can also help people with OHS breathe better.

Understanding and managing OHS is important to improve health and quality of life.