ROHHAD in Children: Hypothylamic Obesity

ROHHAD is a disease I ran across while doing other research for this blog. It certainly brings in some questions about obesity since this obesity is brain-based. So much of our weight is brain driven which establishes appetite, metabolism and far more.

Rapid-onset obesity with hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD) What does this mean? Rapid-onset obesity – Large weight gain in a short amount of time (15 to 20 lbs in a 6- to 12-month period with onset between 1.5 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 Growth hormone insufficiency Diabetes insipidus or innapropriate anti-diuretic hormone 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 body temperature Decreased sensitivity to pain Cold extremities – hands and feet Bradycardia – decrease in heart rate Chronic diarrhea or constipation