What causes low thyroid kids?
A child is at risk for hypothyroidism if he or she has any of these: A chromosomal disorder such as Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, or Turner syndrome. An autoimmune disorder such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease. Not enough or too much iodine intake.
Can a child have an underactive thyroid?
Both men and women can have an underactive thyroid, although it’s more common in women. Children can also develop an underactive thyroid and some babies are born with it.
What are the risks to a child if the symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland are not diagnosed and treated?
Birth defects. Babies born to women with untreated thyroid disease may have a higher risk of birth defects compared to babies born to healthy mothers. These children are also more prone to serious intellectual and developmental problems.
What is low TSH in children?
A low TSH is usually seen when the thyroid gland is releasing too much thyroid hormone (primary hyperthyroidism). A low TSH with a normal T4 level is most commonly due to subclinical (very mild) hyperthyroidism. A low TSH with an elevated FT4 or FTI suggests more severe, “overt”, hyperthyroidism.
How do you know if a child has thyroid problems?
Sweat and sleep problems. Big appetite along with weight loss. Wide eyed stare including possible eyes bulging out. Other problems can include fainting and looser stool.
What happens if a child has untreated hypothyroidism?
Left untreated in newborns, hypothyroidism can lead to mental retardation. Untreated hypothyroidism may also lead to anemia, low body temperature and heart failure. The goal of treatment is to restore the thyroid gland to normal function, producing normal levels of thyroid hormones.
Can a 7 year old have thyroid problems?
Thyroid problems can occur at any age; infants can even be born with a thyroid problem! According to the American Diabetes Association and the Pediatric Endocrine Society, parents should look for the following symptoms that may indicate problems with their child’s thyroid.
What age do thyroid issues start?
The disease is hereditary, and you may develop it at any age. It’s much more common in people assigned female at birth between the ages of 20 to 30, according to the Department of Health and Human Services .