Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as the presence of reduced alveolar ventilation while awake in an obese individual in whom no other cause of reduced alveolar flow has been found. OHS is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early detection and treatment are important to minimize these complications. So for obese individuals, what are the risk factors that can cause this syndrome? What tests and examinations should patients with this syndrome undergo?

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS; Pickwickian syndrome) is defined as the presence of reduced alveolar flow while awake (arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure [PaCO2] > 45 mmHg) in an obese person (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) in the absence of other conditions associated with alveolar hypoventilation (eg, neuromuscular disease)."

If left undiagnosed, obesity-related hypoventilation syndrome is at risk of many complications, including complications of obesity. Early treatment can prevent complications. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is very important, the following article will provide some methods for diagnosing this syndrome.