Hypothyroidism means that the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone, which plays an important role in the way the body runs.
In children with congenital hypothyroidism, meaning they are born with the disorder, severe physical and mental developmental delays can occur if the condition is not identified and treated. Even older children may fail to grow properly if hypothyroidism is not treated.
Congenital hypothyroidism occurs in about one in 3,500 to 4,000 live births and is about two times more common in girls than boys. Newborn screenings, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, can lead to earlier treatment and reduce the risk for developmental delay.
These are possible causes of hypothyroidism in children:
Missing or poorly developed thyroid gland
Pituitary gland that doesn’t work effectively
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, or Hashimoto's disease, in which the immune system attacks the thyroid
Side effect of certain medications
Lack of iodine in the diet
Exposure to radiation, although this is rare
Many babies who are born with hypothyroidism have no symptoms for six to 12 weeks.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism from birth include:
Longer than normal pregnancy
Heavier birth weight
Dull look on the face
Puffy face
Tongue that seems to stick out
Constipation or no or delayed stools after birth
Difficulty eating or choking issues
Difficulty maintaining temperature
Unusual, hoarse cry
Difficulty breathing
Longer than normal jaundice
Lack of activity
Symptoms of hypothyroidism that develop later include:
Goiter (a swelling in the lower neck)
Slow growth
Dry skin, dry hair, and brittle nails
Not wanting to be active
Difficulty sleeping
Constipation
Difficulty with temperature extremes
Abnormal sexual development
Slightly heavier weight than peers
Hypothyroidism can cause the following problems for children and teens, if it isn’t treated:
Developmental delays, both physical and mental
Heart problems
Incorrect development of the central nervous system
Failure to grow and meet developmental milestones
Call your doctor if your child shows any hypothyroidism symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are important.
Doctors typically take a medical history and do a physical exam. A simple blood test can let you know whether your child’s thyroid is functioning correctly. Imaging studies, such as a thyroid scan or an X-ray might, also be needed to diagnose the condition.
The goal of treatment is to get thyroid hormone levels up to normal and reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Treatment is usually one of two options:
Taking thyroid hormones regularly to increase the levels in the blood
Having surgery for an extreme goiter
