Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces less thyroid hormone than the body needs. In some cases, a baby is born without a thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism may be present at birth or may develop later. Some cases are mild and have no symptoms, while others are severe. Parents should be aware of the signs of hypothyroidism in infants. If left untreated, the child may have permanent mental retardation, growth deficiencies and heart problems.
Hoarse Cry
The infant with hypothyroidism may have a hoarse cry that sounds different than other babies'. Her tongue may be thick or large and may protrude from her mouth for many of her waking hours.
Excessive Sleepiness
The Mayo Clinic explains that an infant with hypothyroidism may seem sleepy more than usual. He may be difficult to rouse and may fall back asleep as soon as he is without stimulation. He may seem sluggish instead of active when awake. He may have feeding problems, partly due to not staying awake for normal periods of time. He may choke frequently while feeding and have constipation instead of having the several bowel movements each day characterized by normal infancy.
Altered Skin Color
Her skin color may be yellow or yellow-orange along with the whites of her eyes. While many babies have this jaundice at birth, it is less likely to resolve in a few days if the infant is suffering from low thyroid hormone. The skin may have a mottled appearance and feel cool to the touch. Her face may seem puffy, and any hair on her head may seem dry and brittle instead of fine. A low hairline may be evident.
Muscle Problems
A lack of muscle tone may be noticeable, causing the baby to seem "floppy." The Illinois Department of Public Health reports that a newborn with hypothyroidism may have slowed reflexes compared to a healthy newborn.
Other Physical Differences
Other physical changes are evident in comparison to a healthy infant of the same age. The growth is slowed and the baby may be short in length for age. His arms and legs may be short, and his hands may appear wide with relatively short fingers. The pediatrician may notice that the baby has large fontanels and a protruding abdomen. Some infants with hypothyroidism will have an umbilical hernia.
