Thyroid Disorders in Children: What Parents Need to Know
Thyroid disorders are not limited to adults; they can also affect children. The thyroid gland produces hormones that play a crucial role in growth and development, so any disruption to its function can have serious consequences for a child’s health. Here’s what parents need to know about thyroid disorders in children.
- Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder in children. It occurs when the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. Children with hypothyroidism may experience developmental delays, poor growth, delayed puberty, and intellectual disability if left untreated. This condition can be caused by a congenital defect or an autoimmune disorder. Newborns are routinely screened for hypothyroidism, and early detection and treatment are critical to prevent long-term health problems.
- Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, is less common in children than in adults. It occurs when the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, nervousness, and tremors. In children, hyperthyroidism can cause growth problems and delay in puberty. It can be caused by an autoimmune disorder or a benign tumor in the thyroid gland.
Diagnosis of thyroid disorders in children involves blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves a daily dose of synthetic thyroid hormone. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a part of the thyroid gland. Treatment for hyperthyroidism may involve medication to block the production of thyroid hormone or radioactive iodine therapy to destroy the overactive thyroid tissue.
Parents can help prevent thyroid disorders in children by ensuring adequate iodine intake, as iodine is a key nutrient for thyroid function. Foods such as dairy products, seafood, and iodized salt can provide adequate iodine. If parents notice any signs of thyroid disorder in their children, they should consult their healthcare provider promptly to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.
More in Medical Conditions
-
Worried About Diabetes? Here Are Some Common Myths
There are several myths about diabetes that are frequently reported as facts. Diabetes misrepresentations can sometimes be harmful, leading to an...
June 29, 2023 -
Many Patients Pay Their Medical Costs Out Of Their Pockets – Even With Insurance
With rising inflation, it has become difficult for people to even fulfill their basic necessities. They are more concerned about how...
June 6, 2023 -
What Is The Right Weight For Kids And How To Gain Weight Healthily
Keeping your child happy and healthy is the primary concern of every parent. Parents usually focus on providing their young ones...
May 12, 2023 -
Should Doctors Attend To Patients With ‘Do Not Resuscitate Tattoos’?
Doctors at the University of Miami hospital were confronted with a dilemma when a 70-year-old unconscious man with a tattoo “do...
April 3, 2023 -
Your Antidepressant May Not Work If You Keep Doing This One Thing
People use social comparison to measure their self-worth. Social comparison has been in existence since time immemorial, and it is as...
April 1, 2023 -
Pro Tips on Preventing Hair Breakage While Keeping Your Hair Moisturized at Home
Every one of us is thinking a lot about how to forestall hair breakage and keep them moisturized at home. Since...
March 22, 2023 -
Planning to Travel After Retirement? This is the Best Medicare Coverage for You
Does Medicare insurance go with you once you are out of the country? It’s currently open enrollment period, and while planning...
March 14, 2023 -
Lumeris, A Medical Insurance Provider, Expands Into 5 New States & 44 Counties
Lumeris is one of the leading insurance providers in the United States. For years, the Saint Louis, Missouri-based firm has been...
November 8, 2022 -
Prince Harry Shares The ‘Immense’ Difference in How Therapy Is Viewed In U.S. vs. the U.K
Harry grew up in one of the most famous families in the world. He also dealt with his mother’s death at a...
October 25, 2022
You must be logged in to post a comment Login