Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes uncontrollable food cravings and an insatiable appetite. The compulsive desire to eat is its classic symptom and health complications caused by obesity is an outcome if hyperphagia is left unchecked.
Prader-Willi syndrome’s constant food cravings usually start after a child’s first birthday. And the insatiable appetite is often accompanied by behavior problems such as stubbornness and temper tantrums.
The sense of hyperphagia may be so strong that food hoarding or eating inappropriate food stuff is not uncommon. The insatiable appetite caused obesity is the primary concern for health complications due to Prader-Willi syndrome, such as:
- stroke
- arthritis
- sleep apnea
- heart disease
- type 2 diabetes
Sleep apnea or other sleep disorders may occur even if obesity isn’t a problem.
Other health complications associated with Prader-Willi syndrome involve:
- scoliosis
- low muscle mass
- hypogonadism caused infertility
- osteoporosis due to low level of sex hormones
- binge eating can cause an abnormally distended stomach
There is currently no cure for Preader-Willi syndrome’s food cravings and insatiable appetite. Typically, treatment of this eating disorder focuses on controlling weight to prevent obesity.
Combating hyperphagia routinely is accomplished by ensuring the only food inaccessible is that of a healthy diet. And hormone therapy consisting of growth hormones and sex hormones may be a suggested for treating Prader-Willi syndrome as well.