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. 


Content last reviewed: June 2008