A Case of Anoxic Brain Injury: The Importance of Preventing, Diagnosing and Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida, USA

Introduction. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the absence or intermittent cessation of airflow due to physical obstruction of the airway. This case study reveals the risk factors and adverse medical outcomes of OSA and advocates for the screening of OSA to decrease patient morbidity and mortality and lower national healthcare expenditure. Case Presentation. A 61-year-old male, with a past medical history of hypertension, was brought to the Emergency Department after suffering cardiac arrest. Laboratory studies showed diffuse hypoxic brain injury and chronic hypoxic state due to OSA. Deviation From the Expected. Emphasis is placed on obesity-related diseases such as diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. However, obstructive sleep apnea is equally important, but remains poorly acknowledged. Discussion. OSA may exacerbate coronary artery disease and poor quality of life. OSA is diagnosed by polysomnography and treatments include weight loss and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. Screening guidelines and preventive treatment will be beneficial on the patient-level and on the national-level to reduce economic expense of OSA. Conclusion. The current obesity epidemic poses concerns for healthcare providers in terms of controlling common chronic illnesses such as hypertension and depression, all of which can result from or be exacerbated by untreated OSA. By advancing research through commencing a clinical study analyzing the use of inpatient CPAP device on patients with OSA, this may provide better understanding of how OSA impacts other physiologies and pathologies and divulge stronger comprehension to the mechanisms of OSA co-morbidities that we encounter every day.