Most of us are in an opinion that thyroid problems affects only adults but, how many of you know that even newborns and infants are also affected by hypothyroidism?. Hypothyroidism in children is developed due to too little or no thyroid hormone present in their bloodstream. Hypothyroidism is caused due to congenital problems in the infants and in older children the causes are much similar to adult hypothyroidism. Most of the children with hypothyroidism need thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
What is Hypothyroidism in Children?
Thyroid is a gland situated in the neck, it controls many functions in your child’s body, such as organ functioning, metabolism and growth. Wrong functioning of the thyroid glands affects the child in many ways, and it is called as hypothyroidism. In infants and small children, this can have a significant affect on their development and growth. In older children it can affect their heart rate, weight, muscle strength, cholesterol level, vision and mental state.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Children
Usually, hypothyroidism symptoms vary based on the age and overall health of the child.
Newborns and Infants
- Hypothyroidism occurred during infancy and early childhood is called as cretinism
- Babies born with hypothyroidism may show many symptoms in the first few weeks of life. Most of these symptoms are tough, subtle and are missed easily. Some of them are
Prolonged newborn jaundice — It causes yellow discoloration to the skin
Poor feeding and constipation
Increased sleepiness
Cool, mottled skin
Soft spots on their skull (they will be larger than normal)
Delay in major developmental milestones
Dry skin and sparse hair
Puffy facial features
Older Children
- If the hypothyroidism develops in an older child before his/her growth and development are complete, it may result in growing less height and, puberty may get delayed
- Other symptoms include tiredness, slow heart rate, inability in tolerating cold, puffiness in the face drowsiness, and constipation
