Ondine’s Curse is a rare disorder that affects breathing, especially during sleep. Kids with this condition may need help to breathe correctly.
Ondine’s Curse is a rare disorder that affects breathing, especially during sleep. Kids with this condition may need help to breathe correctly.
What is Ondine's Curse?
Ondine’s Curse, or Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS), is a genetic disorder affecting breathing control, primarily during sleep.
What are the symptoms of Ondine's Curse?
Symptoms of Ondine’s Curse include shallow breathing, low oxygen levels, and a decreased response to high carbon dioxide levels.
How is Ondine's Curse diagnosed?
Ondine’s Curse is typically diagnosed through genetic testing and a sleep study to assess breathing patterns during sleep.
Can individuals with Ondine's Curse lead normal lives?
With proper treatment and management, individuals with Ondine’s Curse can lead fulfilling lives, participating in regular activities and enjoying a good quality of life.
Ondine’s Curse, formally known as Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS), is a rare neurological disorder characterized by impaired autonomic control of breathing, particularly during sleep. This condition results from the abnormal development of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that regulate involuntary functions like breathing. CCHS affects approximately 1 in 200,000 live births.
Genetics Home Reference
National Organization for Rare Disorders
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Symptoms of Ondine’s Curse can vary but often include:
Symptom | Description |
---|---|
Abnormal breathing during sleep | Shallow, irregular, or absent breathing |
Cyanosis | Bluish discoloration of lips, fingers, and toes |
Daytime fatigue | Excessive sleepiness and low energy levels |
Symptoms usually appear shortly after birth but can sometimes develop later in infancy or early childhood. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing this rare condition effectively.