Rapid-onset obesity with hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD)

What does this mean?

Rapid-onset obesity – Increase weight gain in a short amount of time (15 to 20 lbs in a 6- to 12-month period with onset between 3 and 10 years of age.)

Hypothalamic dysfunction – When the hypothalamus does not function properly.  Some symptoms include:

• Increased weight gain in short amount of time
• Hypothyroidism –Causing fatigue, weight gain, hair and skin changes, cold intolerance
• Adrenal insufficiency – Lack of kidney function
• Excessive or diminished thirst due to water/salt imbalance

Hypoventilation – Breathing that is not adequate to meet the needs of the body, or reduced lung function

Autonomic dysregulation – Impairment of the autonomic nervous system

Some symptoms include:

• Altered sweating
• Decreased sensitivity to pain
• Cold extremities – hands and feet
• Episodes of being too cold causing decrease in heart rate
• Bradycardia – decrease in heart rate
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation.

How many people have ROHHAD? 

This is a very rare disorder with only 27 cases identified by our laboratory thus far.