CHEST Guidelines-Effect-of-One-Night-of-Nocturnal-Oxygen-Supplement

Effect-of-One-Night-of-Nocturnal-Oxygen-Supplement

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This study explored the impact of nocturnal oxygen supplementation (NOS) on patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) living at high altitudes (3,200 m) in Shangri-La, China. In a randomized, crossover trial involving 40 patients, researchers assessed whether a night of NOS could improve sleep-related breathing patterns, nocturnal oxygen levels, and cognitive function. Participants received nasal NOS and sham oxygen (ambient air) across two nights, separated by a washout period of two weeks, with polysomnography conducted during treatment nights.<br /><br />Results revealed that NOS significantly reduced the total apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) by a median of 17.9/h, primarily through a decrease in obstructive AHI, and increased blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) by 7.0%. Heart rate during sleep and morning pulse rate were also notably reduced with NOS. However, subjective sleep quality and cognitive performance assessments showed no significant changes.<br /><br />The study concluded that in high-altitude residents with OSA, NOS provides notable improvements in sleep-related breathing disturbances and oxygenation and reduces heart rates during and after sleep. These findings indicate that NOS could potentially serve as an alternative treatment for highland patients with OSA who may not adhere to or tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The effects of NOS seemed promising, but the study called for further research to confirm these benefits over an extended period, especially concerning patient-reported outcomes.<br /><br />Ultimately, this research enhances understanding regarding the management of OSA in individuals residing at high altitudes, where unique respiratory challenges, such as hypobaric hypoxia, prevail.

Keywords

nocturnal oxygen supplementation

obstructive sleep apnea

high altitudes

Shangri-La

randomized crossover trial

apnea-hypopnea index

blood oxygen saturation

cognitive function

polysomnography

continuous positive airway pressure