Nocturnal hypoventilation-a case report

Abstract

Nocturnal hypoventilation is commonly seen in disorders affecting the function of the diaphragm or central respiratory drive mechanisms. The consequences of nocturnal hypoventilation such as sleep disturbances, poor gas exchange, day time sleepiness and effect on daily activities are similar irrespective of the precipitating underlying disorder. Here we report a rare case of nocturnal hypoventilation which posed a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.