Thyroid Disorders

This condition occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism can slow down a child’s growth and development, leading to various physical and cognitive issues. Congenital hypothyroidism, present at birth, is the most common form in infants, while acquired hypothyroidism typically develops later in childhood or adolescence.

This condition is characterized by an overactive thyroid gland that produces too much thyroid hormone. While less common than hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can speed up metabolism, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heart rate, and nervousness. Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in children.

Children with hypothyroidism often feel unusually tired or sluggish, even after a full night’s sleep.

Hypothyroidism can slow down physical growth, leading to short stature or delayed puberty in older children.

Despite normal or reduced food intake, children with hypothyroidism may experience weight gain due to a slowed metabolism.

Children with an underactive thyroid may feel cold more often than others due to decreased metabolic activity.

Hypothyroidism can cause dry, coarse skin and brittle hair that may thin over time.

A slow metabolism can affect digestion, leading to constipation.

Hypothyroidism can affect a child’s ability to focus, causing memory issues or slowed learning.

Some children with hypothyroidism may develop swelling in the face or neck, particularly if the thyroid gland becomes enlarged (goiter).

An abnormally fast heart rate is a hallmark of hyperthyroidism.

Despite having a good appetite, children with hyperthyroidism may lose weight due to a faster metabolism.

Children with hyperthyroidism may appear jittery, anxious, or overly energetic.

Children with an overactive thyroid may feel hot even in normal or cool temperatures.

Tremors, particularly in the hands, can occur in children with hyperthyroidism.

Excessive sweating may be another symptom of an overactive thyroid.

A blood test is the most common way to diagnose thyroid disorders. It measures the levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland to regulate the thyroid.

Tests In some cases, blood tests may also be used to detect the presence of antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. These antibodies are often present in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease (hypothyroidism) or Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism).

An ultrasound of the thyroid may be performed if a goiter or other abnormalities are suspected. This imaging test helps assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland.

A radioactive iodine uptake test (thyroid scan) may be used to evaluate how well the thyroid is functioning by measuring how much iodine the thyroid absorbs.

Children with hypothyroidism are typically treated with a daily dose of levothyroxine, a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone T4. This medication restores normal thyroid hormone levels, relieving symptoms and supporting healthy growth and development. Levothyroxine is safe and effective when taken as prescribed, and most children with hypothyroidism will need to take it for life.

Children with hypothyroidism will need regular blood tests to monitor their TSH and T4 levels, especially during periods of rapid growth or puberty. This allows the doctor to adjust the medication dosage as needed to maintain proper thyroid function.

For children with hyperthyroidism, medications like methimazole may be prescribed to reduce the production of thyroid hormones. This treatment helps normalize hormone levels and relieve symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, nervousness, and weight loss.

In some cases, radioactive iodine may be used to destroy part of the thyroid gland and reduce its activity. This treatment is more commonly used in older children or teens and is generally considered safe.

In rare cases, surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland may be necessary if other treatments are not effective or if the thyroid is significantly enlarged (goiter). After surgery, children will need to take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their lives.

It’s important that children take their prescribed thyroid medication consistently. Missing doses can lead to symptoms returning or worsening.

Routine visits to monitor thyroid function are essential to ensure that treatment remains effective. Blood tests will be needed periodically to adjust medication dosages as your child grows.

Encourage a balanced diet and regular physical activity to support your child’s overall health and well-being. Children with thyroid disorders should maintain healthy habits to promote optimal development.