The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that sits at the base of the throat. In response to hormonal signals from the brain, it secretes thyroid hormones. These hormones are important in the body's metabolism, temperature regulation and also help in the growth and development of children. The symptoms of thyroid problems depend on whether the gland is hypo- or hyperactive.
Hyperactive Thyroid
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid secretes too much thyroid hormone. According to the "Merck Manuals," the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in children and adolescents is Graves' disease. In Graves' disease, the body produces abnormal antibodies that stimulate the thyroid to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. The main symptoms of hyperthyroidism in children include rapid heart rate, irritability, high blood pressure and bulging of the eyes or exophthalmos. Children can also develop a goiter, which signals overgrowth of a hyperactive thyroid gland. Younger children and infants can have poor growth or failure to thrive, short stature and intellectual disabilities.
Hypoactive Thyroid
Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone to satisfy the body's requirements. According to the "Physicians' Desktop Reference," common causes of hypothyroidism in children include autoimmune disease, in which the body attacks the thyroid gland thinking it is "foreign" tissue; having little iodine in the diet, since iodine is an important component of thyroid hormones; and congenital hypothyroidism, in which a baby is born without a functioning thyroid gland. Symptoms of hypothyroidism in children include delayed growth, delayed onset of puberty, coarse facial features, brittle hair, dry skin, cold intolerance and constipation. Children with unrecognized congenital hypothyroidism can have severe developmental delay with mental retardation and language delay. Older children can have delay in their physical sexual characteristics and suffer from depression.
Thyroid Mass
Thyroid nodules are lumps that can be felt within the thyroid gland. They are usually discovered by accident, or during the course of a routine physical exam. Although most thyroid nodules are benign, they can be a sign of thyroid cancer, especially if accompanied by weight loss, rapid heart rate, trouble sleeping and muscle weakness. In general, thyroid nodules are more common in female adolescents than in other age groups.
