Why You Need to Know Thyroid Diseases In Children

The butterfly-shaped thyroid gland, which is situated at the front of the neck and has a significant physiological function, is a vital organ. It generates hormones that govern metabolism as a kid age and controls brain development and growth in infants Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules are the most frequent thyroid issues, and they can all be treated.

What is Hypothyroid?

An underactive thyroid, low thyroid, or hypothyroidism The thyroid gland is underactive and generates little thyroid hormone in this situation. The pituitary gland will create more thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH, to aid the thyroid gland in producing the necessary quantity of T3 and T4 hormones. One also increases their risk of thyroid gland enlargement and, in some situations, a goiter as a result of this excess TSH secretion.

Any age can develop hypothyroidism, although youngsters experience different symptoms. The first few weeks or months following birth are when babies initially experience symptoms. These signs include:

1. the appearance of constipation, 

2. poor nutrition, 

3. cold skin, and yellowing of the skin 

4. eyes decreased crying

5. breathing loudly

6. Increasing sleep and reducing activity

7. Larger tongue and a tender area on the head

If you notice these signs consult the doctor and get the right pediatric hypothyroidism treatment

What is Hyperthyroid?

The thyroid, a little gland in the front of the neck with the shape of a butterfly, is overactive in children who have hyperthyroidism. This indicates that it generates an excessive amount of thyroid hormone, which can increase your child's heart rate, quicken their metabolism, or give them feel uneasy.

Grave's disease, an autoimmune condition in which your child's immune system attacks their thyroid and results in the overproduction of thyroid hormone, is the most prevalent form of hyperthyroidism in children. Children's hyperthyroidism symptoms

Following are some symptoms of childhood hyperthyroidism:

1. higher heart rate

2. Goitre, a swollen thyroid gland

3. Constant perspiration

4. difficulty sleeping

5. Loss of weight

6. Shaking

7. Heat sensitivity

8. feeling uneasy or agitated

These signs may not always indicate that your child has hyperthyroidism. Similar symptoms can be seen in other diseases. You can get assistance figuring out the source of the issue and the best course of action from your pediatric thyroid specialist.

Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders in Children

Several procedures are used to confirm childhood thyroid problems. The doctor will first evaluate your child's medical history, thoroughly examine their symptoms, and conduct a full physical examination. Blood tests to measure your child's levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) will then be used to confirm their likely diagnosis. Antibodies that can lead to Graves' disease can also be checked for by blood tests. Last but not least, thyroid imaging, such as an ultrasound or radioiodine scan, can assess the thyroid gland's functionality.

Treatment of Thyroid Disorders in Children

Medication is the main method of treatment for thyroid conditions. If your child has hyperthyroidism, an antithyroid drug like methimazole will be prescribed to lower thyroid hormone levels. Your child will be prescribed a medication like Synthroid if they have hypothyroidism so that their body can receive synthetic thyroid hormones.

In some circumstances, radioactive iodine therapy may be used to reduce thyroid hormone production and treat the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in children. In other cases, surgery can be required for a more long-lasting fix.

For long-term monitoring, children with pediatric thyroid problems will probably need regular routine office visits (usually every three months). Give us a call right away to talk with one of our staff members if your child requires examination or treatment for symptoms that could indicate thyroid disease. contact: +91 7970 108 108