During Thyroid Awareness Month, We Consider Common Children’s Symptoms
A tiny gland in the shape of a butterfly called the thyroid is in charge of generating hormones that are essential to many bodily processes.
When the gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, dysfunction results. Even children can develop thyroid problems, despite the fact that older people are typically more susceptible.
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the two most prevalent thyroid disorders that affect young people.
The good news is that this condition is curable, but early detection is crucial for a good prognosis.
In order to raise awareness of the significance of the thyroid, its functions, and problems associated with it, January is designated as Thyroid Awareness Month.
Thyroid Disorders:
Children who have thyroid disease are typically affected by two types. Which are:
Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland overproduces the thyroid hormone thyroxine, which causes this condition.
Weight loss and irregular heartbeat are the results of this condition’s accelerated metabolism.
Hypothyroidism
Production of thyroid-stimulating hormone is insufficient, which results in hypothyroidism (TSH).
Heart rate and body temperature changes can be brought on by a lack of thyroid hormones.
Children’s Hyperthyroidism Symptoms
The American Diabetes Association and the Paediatric Endocrine Society both state that children with hyperthyroidism may experience symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, a rapid heartbeat, and an obviously enlarged thyroid gland.
Along with mood swings, you might be able to detect your child’s excessive sweating and sleep issues.
Despite having a healthy appetite and a wide-eyed stare with a chance of bulging eyes, they could be losing weight.
Additional signs can include dizziness and looser stools.
Children’s Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Your child may show signs of fatigue, swelling or puffiness in the face, and weight gain without an increase in appetite. For children, other signs include slowed growth, sore muscles, constipation, brittle hair, and dry skin.
Your child may show signs of fatigue, swelling or puffiness in the face, and weight gain without an increase in appetite. For children, other signs include slowed growth, sore muscles, constipation, brittle hair, and dry skin.
Care For The Thyroid
The typical course of treatment for an overactive thyroid involves medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. Carbimazole and propylthiouracil are the two main types of medications used to treat hyperthyroidism in children.
For adults, the other two treatment options are typically preferred.
Levothyroxine is prescribed to treat an underactive thyroid. On an empty stomach, these medications are taken at the same time each day.
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