If you are diagnosed with obesity hypoventilation syndrome, your provider may recommend healthy lifestyle changes, such as getting to and maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active. You may also need a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or other breathing device at night to help keep your airways open and increase blood oxygen levels. Other treatments may include weight-loss surgery or medicines.
If you have been prescribed a CPAP machine, use it as instructed and continue with your provider’s recommended healthy lifestyle changes to prevent complications. Tell your provider about new symptoms, such as swelling around your ankles, chest pain, lightheadedness, or wheezing. Talk to your provider if you will be flying or need surgery, because these situations can increase your risk for serious complications.
