Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland releases hormones that help the body to function in many different ways. When the thyroid gland stops producing as much of this hormone it is called hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid . When this condition occurs in little children it can severely affect their growth and development. If diagnosed make sure as early as possible to initiate correct treatment. The risks of something severely to occur are greatly reduced when treated in the early stages.
Most babies that are born with hypothyroidism are usually a result of the mother lacking iodine in her diet. This may be more common in countries where it is difficult to get iodine rich foods. This is normally a condition in which the thyroid did not develop properly, and can mostly be quite easily treated with immediate hormone replacements. One of the scariest thoughts for a parent is missing the signs of this disorder in their baby and it being left so long that permanent brain damage could be the result. Luckily the symptoms are rather easy to spot, when you know what to look for.
The symptoms a new parent would notice if their child had this condition would be not feeding well, low body temperature, constipation, slow pulse, and sleeping more than usual. For any new mum or dad these signs are very subtle as all babies are different. If left for a period of time the advanced symptoms may include dry skin and hair, slow reflexes, puffiness and swelling or simply a lack in normal development. When babies are born now they are tested for this condition and treated immediately as doctors are aware of the detrimental effects of hypothyroidism in babies. We also have a lot more checkups with doctors and health nurses in certain places.
Many symptoms found in older kids are similar to grown ups who have developed this condition. Absolute lack of energy and motivation, focus, memory and concentration, drowsiness, dry flaky skin and depression. It may be hard to pinpoint the symptoms as most teenagers may seem to contain a few of these symptoms anyway, but if it s very consistent and regular as opposed to temperamental signs then a health professional should be contacted.
Actually this is the case if you suspect your child, at ANY age, is suffering from an underactive thyroid. The older the child is, the less likely that he/she will suffer from permanent effects, but the symptoms can be tough to deal with at any age and there can always be more damage caused. As a parent it is important to keep on top of the regular checkups and blood tests. This is so your childs doctor can alter treatments given and avoid a situation where your child may suffer a whole new variety of symptoms more similar to an overactive thyroid (too many hormones being produced). Girls seem to suffer from this condition more that boys.
Treatment is not expensive and easily taken but must be monitered in children.
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At http://hypothyroidismdiet.net/ you can learn more about hypothyroidism and its causes, cures, symptoms and what is the optimal hypothyroidism diet.
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