What Is the Impact of Thyroid on Kids? Understand the Signs, Causes, and Cure
What Is the Impact of Thyroid on Kids?
Thyroid diseases are identified by elevated or decreased thyroid hormone levels in an individual. The thyroid hormones also assist in regulating a number of other essential bodily processes.
The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of hormones, which are vital to numerous bodily systems. Thyroid diseases are identified by elevated or decreased thyroid hormone levels in an individual. The thyroid hormones also assist in regulating a number of other essential bodily processes. This article will examine thyroid diseases in children, including their causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Dr. Richa Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in New Delhi, discussed the potential effects of thyroid issues on children, saying that they may hinder their growth and vitality. Thyroid problems fall into two categories: hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, and hypothyroidism, or sluggish thyroidism. Lazy thyroid disease can affect babies at birth and impede their growth and IQ if left untreated. Problems can arise when the thyroid gets enlarged (goiter) or lumpy (nodules).
Types Of Hypothyroidism in Children:
Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces inadequate thyroid hormones, is a frequent thyroid problem in children.
Speaking about the different forms of hypothyroidism, pediatrician Dr. Nihar Parekh, founder of Cheers Child Care and SOCC (Second Opinion & Online Consultation For Children), stated that there are two types of hypothyroidism in children: congenital hypothyroidism (CH), which is the most common type and occurs from birth. And the other could develop as a side effect of an autoimmune condition known as autoimmune Hashimoto thyroiditis, which would then result in hypothyroidism in young children or teenagers.”
In order to rule out congenital hypothyroidism in neonates, a cord blood sample from the mother during delivery is now routinely tested for thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH. The newborn is tested for T3 and T4, the other two thyroid hormones, as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis of CH if the baby’s TSH is high at birth and remains high for several days to a week. To avoid delayed development and mental health problems in the child, all that is necessary is the right amount of medication and vigilant monitoring of these thyroid levels,” he continued.
Hyperthyroidism In Children:
Dr. Ashok Kumar Jhingan, Senior Director, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, Centre for Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity & Endocrinology, stated: “A child develops hyperthyroidism when their thyroid gland produces more thyroid hormone than they require. A youngster with an overactive thyroid gland may experience swelling and feel like they have a lump in their throat, particularly when they swallow.”
Excessive hormone production from the thyroid gland can speed up a child’s metabolism and lead to issues including tremors, anxiety, and weight loss. Their development and growth may also be impacted. In contrast to hypothyroidism, pediatric hyperthyroidism is uncommon but curable,” he continued.
“Treatment is important because hyperthyroidism can cause cognitive delay in children under the age of three, which affects their ability to think and learn,” he added in reference to the course of therapy. If it is not identified in the first few hours of life, it may be fatal for neonates. Children with untreated hyperthyroidism may also grow rapidly at first, then cease growing prematurely. Short stature may result from this.”
Causes Of Hyperthyroidism In Children:
The most frequent cause of childhood hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. This autoimmune condition arises from the body’s immune system becoming confused and targeting the thyroid gland in addition to pathogens. It works by stimulating the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormone through the usage of cells known as antibodies. The muscles behind the eyes may also be attacked by these antibodies, which could result in an enlargement of the eyes. Another name for Graves’ illness is autoimmune hyperthyroidism.
Overdosing on thyroid hormone medications can result in hyperthyroidism. It is possible for children using thyroid hormone medication to overdose and develop hyperthyroidism instead of treating their low thyroid condition.
Excessive consumption of dietary iodine can also result in hyperthyroidism. Although iodine is a necessary component for the synthesis of thyroid hormone, eating too much of it is conceivable. This may occur by consuming an excessive amount of iodine-rich Growths in the thyroid gland called thyroid nodules can occasionally produce excess hormones. In the event that a child’s neck has a nodule, a biopsy is advised.
When the thyroid gland becomes inflamed and releases excess hormones into the bloodstream, it is known as thyroiditis. Usually, this is a self-limiting illness, meaning it will end on its own. Thyroiditis can be brought on by an injury to the thyroid gland, an infection, or the early stages of an autoimmune illness like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Warning Signs That Parents Should Notice:
The CEO and Founder of YogaSutra Holistic Living, Functional Medicine, and Health Expert, Shivani Bajwa, stated, “Early detection of hypothyroidism might be difficult due to its mild manifestations. Signs including inexplicable weariness, weight gain, and slower-than-expected growth in children should alert parents. In addition, children’s underactive thyroid may manifest as constipation, dry skin, and cold sensitivity. Hypothyroidism can also manifest as behavioral changes like elevated anger or decreased academic performance.”
On the other hand, hyperthyroidism, which is defined by an overactive thyroid gland, can have certain drawbacks of its own. Children who exhibit symptoms like abrupt weight loss, increased appetite, and restlessness may be noticed by their parents. Hyperthyroidism can accelerate heart rate, leading to palpitations, and may result in irregular menstrual cycles in adolescent girls. Additionally, children with hyperthyroidism may report trouble concentrating, anxiety, and mood changes. The importance of identifying these minute changes in a child’s behavior and physical health is emphasized by the fact that unexplained sweating and heat sensitivity are also frequent symptoms, the speaker continued.
Furthermore, Dr. Richa Chaturvedi added, “Scans and blood testing can assist identify the cause of a child’s thyroid problems. Medications or, in rare cases, surgery are the usual forms of treatment, depending on what’s wrong. Early detection is the goal in order to allow for proper growth and learning. Although thyroid issues can seem severe, they can be resolved with the right care, allowing kids to resume their active, developing lives.”
How To Know If A Child Is Prone To Thyroid Disorder
Genetic History: A child’s susceptibility to thyroid issues is increased if there is a family history of the ailment.
Weight Changes: Sudden increases or decreases in a child’s weight that are not expected could indicate a thyroid imbalance. An enlarged thyroid gland or goiter may be indicated by neck swelling. Regularly assessing growth and properly monitoring food habits are crucial.
Changes in Skin and Hair Texture: Dry skin, frizzy hair, or other texture issues might be brought on by thyroid issues. Frequent assessment of the child’s skin and hair health can reveal early warning indicators for timely identification and prophylactic treatment.
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Mood Swings and Behavioral Changes: These can significantly affect an individual’s mental health whether they manifest as irritability, mood swings, or behavioral changes. A doctor’s guidance should always be sought and emotional health must be actively monitored for comprehensive support and management.
Nutrients And Food Items That Should Be Avoided:
Iodine: This is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone production may be elevated by a diet high in iodine.
Because difficulties with bone mineral density might arise from hyperthyroidism, calcium and vitamin D are essential.
Foods and drinks that are low in iodine include:
- non-iodized salt
- egg whites
- fresh or frozen vegetables
- herbs and spices
- vegetable oils
- Cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli
