An underactive thyroid condition is also referred to as hypothyroidism. Children can have variations of hypothyroidism, such as congenital hypothyroidism and transient hypothyroidism. Your body relies on your thyroid to produce hormones and regulate metabolism. While hypothyroidism has some very distinct symptoms, they can be slightly different in children. If your child is displaying any of the signs of hypothyroidism, he should receive prompt medical attention to confirm a diagnosis.
Jaundice
Jaundice occurs when the body experiences a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Newborns and children produce more bilirubin than adults, so they experience a high turnover of red blood cells. Jaundice can also be an indication of hypothyroidism. Because the thyroid fails to make enough T3, or triiodothyronine, and T4, or thyroxine, hormones, your child's metabolism is affected. A slowed metabolism can lead to vital organs, such as the liver, not working properly. Elevated liver enzymes in addition to jaundice may also be present.
Voice Changes
If you notice that your child's voice is changing or becoming deeper, it could be an indication of an underactive thyroid. The pituitary gland sends a signal to the thyroid when there is not enough thyroid hormone circulating through the blood stream. As a result, the thyroid begins to grow abnormally and cause lumps or enlargement, leading to a goiter. Your child's pediatrician can do an oral exam to check for enlargement, and may continue with an ultrasound or x-ray to confirm the presence of a goiter.
Weight Changes
If you notice that your child is gaining weight suddenly and has not changed her eating habits, her thyroid could be underactive. Because the thyroid is producing fewer hormones, her metabolism is slowing down, and eating even regular, healthy food can lead to weight gain and fatigue. If your child is trying to lose weight, she may have difficulty if she has hypothyroidism. Once she is being treated through iodine therapy or a synthetic hormone, her weight should be easier to manage.
Underdevelopment
A sign of hypothyroidism in children is underdevelopment. This is often identified during a routine physical exam. If your child is under his normal weight and height or any other abnormalities are found, his doctor may conduct a routine blood draw that includes a comprehensive metabolic panel and a TSH test to measure thyroid function. Testing may also include a thyroid antibodies test to rule out autoimmune thyroid disease. If congenital hypothyroidism is suspected, it needs to be treated. An untreated underactive thyroid can stunt a child's growth and affect him mentally. Closely monitored thyroid replacement therapy may be needed. This would require the child to take a synthetic thyroid replacement medication until levels return to normal or, in some cases, for the rest of his life.
