Medical and surgical treatment of obesity in obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS)

Abstract

Obesity is one of the most important risk factors in sleep-related respiratory disorders; more than 70% of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) show some degree of obesity. Weight loss, through medical or surgical means, should be a primary goal in the management of OSAHS since it improves the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) in a high percentage, which should be stimulated in all patients. Changes in the lifestyle are the first step and should be done through multi-component interventions that include eating habits, physical activity, and psychological support. If after three to six months of treatment the goals established for weight loss have not been met, drugs against obesity or bariatric surgery can be formulated. The current risk of undergoing bariatric surgery is low and the benefits are evident.

Keywords

• Obesidad
• Estilo de vida
• Cirugía bariátrica.