I am due to have bariatric surgery and have sleep apnoea. What should I do?

One answer received

1. Caroline Hughes on 13th February 2018 - 10:47pm Reply

   If you are extremely obese, or have obesity-related illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and heart problems, bariatric surgery can improve your long-term life expectancy according to research. However, studies suggest approximately 1 in 156 people die within 30 days of the surgery. This level of risk is not to be taken lightly.

   If you have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, you are vulnerable when anaesthetised or sedated. You may have an increased risk of breathing problems and heart complications.

   It is important that your Obstructive Sleep Apnoea is recognised and treated before you have surgery, ideally with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This treatment uses air pressure to hold your airways open. It should be used prior to and after surgery to ensure your airways remain open and you continue breathing. It is best to take your CPAP machine into hospital so that you can use it as soon as possible after your operation.

   As well as using CPAP regularly, you can increase your chances of survival by:

   • Stopping smoking
   • Losing some weight before surgery by healthy eating and physical activity
   • Attending your preoperative checks to ensure you are healthy enough to undergo surgery
   • Having a diet and exercise regime already in place for when you recover
   • Following all the advice given by your anaesthetist and surgeon.