Thyroid disorders are relatively common in children and can have an impact on their overall health and development. It’s essential for parents to know the signs of thyroid disorders and get proper treatment for their children.

Here are the common types of thyroid disorders in children and their symptoms.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones that regulate growth and metabolism. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include:.

Slower physical growth than usual
Gaining weight easily and difficulty losing weight
Tiredness and fatigue
Pale, dry skin
Dry, brittle hair and hair loss
Delayed puberty
Constipation
Slower cognitive development, slowed reflexes and poor memory

If a child shows these symptoms, a doctor can perform a blood test to check thyroid hormone levels and diagnose hypothyroidism. Treatment includes thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone which can speed up the body’s metabolic rate. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:.

Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Weight loss
Nervousness and irritability
Inability to sleep
Increased sweating and difficulty tolerating heat
Tremors
Muscle weakness and fatigue
Diarrhea

If a child shows these symptoms, a doctor can perform a blood test to check thyroid hormone levels and diagnose hyperthyroidism. Treatment for hyperthyroidism may include medication or, in some cases, radioactive iodine.

Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules are solid or fluid-filled lumps on the thyroid gland. They are common in adults, but can also occur in children.

Most thyroid nodules don’t cause symptoms, however, in some instances, larger thyroid nodules can cause signs and symptoms that contribute to hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, or difficulty eating or breathing if the nodule puts pressure on the esophagus or trachea. If a thyroid nodule is suspected, a thyroid ultrasound or fine needle biopsy may be recommended to evaluate the nodule and potentially remove it.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer in children is rare but can occur. The symptoms of thyroid cancer can include:.

Development of a painless mass or lump in the front of the neck
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Changes in vocal quality
Swollen lymph nodes

If these symptoms or signs of Thyroid cancer are present, a doctor will perform tests such as a biopsy, blood tests, and imaging studies to diagnose and manage the problem.

Treatment for thyroid cancer may involve surgery followed by radioiodine and/or thyroid hormone therapy.

Treatment for Thyroid Disorders

Most thyroid disorders in children can be treated successfully. Treatment for hypothyroidism involves replacing thyroid hormones with medication and, in some cases, dietary changes.

Treatment for hyperthyroidism might involve medications to decrease hormone production as well as measures to minimize thyroid hormone release including decreasing iodine content in their diet. In some cases, surgical removal of all or a part of the thyroid gland may be necessary. However, most thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer are successfully treated with total thyroidectomy.

Conclusion

Thyroid disorders in children can impact their overall wellbeing and development. Knowing the signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders can help parents get the right diagnosis and treatment for their children.

Routine check-ups with a pediatrician or family doctor can detect the early onset of these problems, leading to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.