All You Need to Know About Hypothyroidism in Children

How Common Is Hypothyroidism in Children?

Hypothyroidism is extremely common. It can affect anyone at any age, including children and newborns.

Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Children?

Newborns

Hypothyroidism occurs at any age, but the symptoms vary in children. Symptoms are seldom apparent at birth. The age at which symptoms appear and their severity depends on how well the infant’s thyroid gland works. Some symptoms may occur in the first few weeks or months after birth. The symptoms are subtle and can often be missed by parents and doctors. These include:

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• Constipation
• Poor feeding
• Cold skin
• Decreased crying
• Loud breathing
• Sleeping more often/decreased activity
• Larger soft spot on the head
• A large tongue
• Swelling around the eyes

Toddlers and gradeschoolers

The problems associated with hypothyroidism in children vary depending on the child’s age. Some thyroid conditions that appear in young children are:

Teens

Hypothyroidism in teenagers occurs more often in girls than boys, and it’s most commonly due to the autoimmune disease Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Teenagers with a family history of autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, or type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk for developing thyroid disease. Children with genetic disorders such as Down syndrome also have an increased risk for thyroid disease.

Symptoms in teens resemble those in adults. But, the symptoms can be vague and hard to recognize. Teenagers with hypothyroidism often experience the following physical symptoms:

• Weight gain
• Slowed growth
• Less than average height
• Slowed breast development
• Delayed start of menstruation
• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Increased testicular size in boys
• Delayed puberty
• Dry, itchy skin
• Brittle hair and nails
• Constipation
• Hoarse voice
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Muscle and joint pain and stiffness

Teenagers with hypothyroidism may also experience changes in behavior that are less obvious. Those symptoms include:

• Tiredness
• Forgetfulness
• Mood or behavior problems
• Difficulties with school performance
• Depressed mood
• Trouble concentrating

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When Should I See My Doctor?

If your child has any signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism, consult with your doctor. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.

What Increases the Risk of Hypothyroidism in Children?

There are many risk factors for hypothyroidism in children. Some of the more common cases include:

• Children whose parents, grandparents, or siblings have hypothyroidism are at a higher risk for thyroid disease. This is also true if there’s a family history of immune problems that impact the thyroid.
• Autoimmune conditions, such as Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, more commonly appear during puberty. These thyroid conditions more frequently affect girls than boys.