Home-based nocturnal oxymetry by the primary care practitioner
Rieder, J.-P.; Nemitz, N.; Courteheuse, C.
Revue Medicale Suisse 5(218): 1890-1894
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 1660-9379 PMID: 19852419 Document Number: 12917
Sleep-related disordered breathing is frequent and associated with high morbidity and mortality, thus representing a public health problem. Sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) is sorely under-diagnosed. Our questioning was about the usefulness of a home-based overnight oxymetry organised by the primary care physician (PCP) for SAHS detection. It appears from our review that patients with snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness can benefit from this tool. Oxygen desaturation index less than 5/h does not rule out SAHS but makes it very unlikely. In accordance with the symptoms, one should refer the patient for complementary investigation. Besides detection, PCP has an important role to play in partnership with the pneumologist in helping the patient to cope with his respiratory device and contributing to treatment com-
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