Ondine's Curse (Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome)

Ondine's Curse, also known as Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS), is a rare disorder that affects the automatic control of breathing. Individuals with CCHS do not have a normal response to rising carbon dioxide levels in their blood, leading to shallow or absent breathing during sleep. In milder cases, symptoms may only occur during sleep, while more severe cases may require respiratory support even during wakefulness. Lifelong respiratory support, such as positive pressure ventilation, is often necessary to manage breathing difficulties.