How Does Obesity Affect Breathing in Sleep?

Sleep-Related Hypoventilation Syndrome (SRHS)

SRHS, also called Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome, occurs when breathing becomes too shallow or slow during sleep, resulting in low oxygen and high carbon dioxide levels. Excess fat around the chest, neck, and abdomen restricts lung expansion and narrows the upper airway, especially when muscles relax during sleep.

If  left untreated, SRHS can lead to:

• Pulmonary hypertension

• Right-sided heart failure

• Cognitive impairment and persistent fatigue

Early recognition is crucial because symptoms are often subtle and may be mistaken for general tiredness.

How Obesity Affects Breathing Mechanics

Obesity impacts breathing through several mechanisms:

• Chest and Abdominal Pressure: Excess fat pushes against the diaphragm, reducing lung expansion.

• Narrowed Airways: Fat deposits around the neck compress the upper airway.

• Increased Respiratory Workload: Breathing requires more effort to maintain oxygen levels.

• Impaired Gas Exchange: Restricted airflow leads to low oxygen (hypoxemia) and high carbon dioxide (hypercapnia).

These factors together contribute to sleep disruption, daytime fatigue, and increased cardiovascular stress.

Obesity and Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA is characterized by repeated partial or complete airway obstruction during sleep, causing breathing pauses that last 10 seconds or more.

Common symptoms include:

• Loud snoring

• Gasping or choking during sleep

• Morning headaches

• Daytime sleepiness and difficulty concentrating

Obesity is a major risk factor, with 70–90% of OSA patients being overweight or obese.

Sleep-Related Hypoventilation Syndrome (SRHS)

SRHS occurs when shallow breathing prevents adequate oxygen intake and carbon dioxide elimination. Unlike OSA, SRHS primarily results from respiratory inefficiency due to obesity, and can lead to pulmonary hypertension, heart strain, and chronic fatigue.

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of obesity-related sleep disorders include:

• Loud snoring and choking during sleep

• Morning headaches or dry mouth

• Feeling unrefreshed after sleep

• Excessive daytime fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

Early detection is essential for preventing long-term health complications.

Long-Term Health Risks

Untreated obesity-related sleep disorders can result in:

• Cardiovascular complications: Hypertension, arrhythmias, heart attack, stroke

• Pulmonary hypertension: Chronic hypoxia increases lung artery pressure

• Metabolic issues: Worsened insulin resistance and diabetes

• Cognitive impairment: Fatigue, reduced focus, and memory problems

• Reduced life expectancy: Persistent oxygen deprivation can shorten lifespan

 High Flow Rates in CPAP Therapy

CPAP therapy manages OSA and SRHS, with flow rates based on obesity, airway resistance and severity. Mild OSA needs 20-30 L/min, moderate 30-35 L/min, severe 45-60 L/min, and SRHS 40-70 L/min, adjusted for comfort, ventilation, and oxygenation.

Benefits of High Flow CPAP Therapy

• Overcoming airway collapse: Keeps the airway open even when muscles relax.

• Reducing resistance: Easier airflow decreases effort required for breathing.

• Improved oxygenation: Maintains stable oxygen levels, reducing desaturation.

• Alleviating symptoms: Reduces snoring, daytime fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

• Individualized settings: Flow rates are personalized based on severity and response.

High flow CPAP therapy is particularly effective for obese patients, whose airway resistance and lung load are higher.

Reve Auto CPAP Device – Advanced Sleep Therapy

For patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the Reve Auto CPAP Device offers intelligent, adaptive therapy that ensures restful sleep and optimal airway management.

Key Features:

• High Flow Rate (190 L/min): Maintains open airways for patients of all body sizes.

• Whisper-Quiet Operation (24.6 dB): Allows uninterrupted sleep for both the patient and their partner.

• No Foam Circuit: Calibrates circuit resistance for cleaner, safer, and more effective therapy.

• Auto CPAP Mode: Detects and responds to obstructive and central apneas in real time.

• Comfort Control Plus & Smart Ramp: Smoothly adjusts pressure during sleep for a natural inhale and exhale.

• Heated Humidifier & Tubing: Prevents dryness and irritation.

• Compact & Travel-Friendly: Easy to carry for home or travel use.

• Optional Cloud Connectivity: Enables remote therapy tracking and data sharing with healthcare providers.

The Reve Auto CPAP Device is designed for both beginners and experienced users, providing smart, personalized therapy for effective oxygenation and airway support.

Diagnosis and Treatment