CPAP therapy in a young hypertension patient

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common cause of hypertension in adults. However, data regarding OSA are limited in hypertensive patients aged less than 40 years. Here, we reported clinical features and outcomes of OSA induced hypertension in a young patient. A 24-year-old man presented with epistaxis from high blood pressure for one day. He was at risk for OSA by having high body mass index of 29 kg/m2, retrognathia, and Mallampati class 3. There was no evidence of other causes of hypertension. The diagnosis of OSA was confirmed by polysomnography with an apnea-hypopnea index of 10 times/hour. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine was successfully introduced. The apnea-hypopnea index was lower to 2.8 times/hour with CPAP therapy. He was complied with CPAP resulting in normal blood pressure (120/70 mmHg). No antihypertensive medication was required. In conclusion, OSA can be the cause of hypertension in young patients. CPAP therapy alone may be the effective therapy to control hypertension without any antihypertensive medication..