In the shadow of Ondine’s Curse – medical and psychological aspects of functioning of people suffering from a rare genetic disease

Abstract

Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS) is a rare, life-threatening disease. CCHS affects the central and autonomic nervous system, which controls many of the body’s automatic functions. The most recognizable symptom of CCHS is the inability to control breathing to varying degrees, which results in the need to support ventilation throughout the day or only during sleep. It is estimated that there are 1200 cases of CCHS worldwide. In Poland, only 18 children have been affected by this disease, and the disease began to be talked about only quite recently in our country. Despite this, there are only few articles in Polish that could provide parents and patients with a source of knowledge and support in coping with this disease.