Hypothyroidism - How To Detect The Symptoms Of It In Kids?

To understand about hypothyroidism, it is essential to first understand about the thyroid gland. Thyroid is an endocrine gland situated in the neck and produces the thyroid hormone. This hormone is then carried through the blood to different cells of the body. It helps the body organs to keep working as they should and also helps maintain body temperature. The two thyroid hormones - Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) regulate protein, fat, carbohydrate and vitamin metabolism and are also responsible for proper differentiation and development of cells.

Hypothyroidism or Underactive thyroid or Low thyroid
This is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive and produces low amounts of the thyroid hormone. To help the thyroid gland produce the required amount of T3 and T4 hormones, the pituitary gland will make additional thyroid stimulating hormone called TSH. Due to this additional secretion of TSH, one also develops chances of thyroid gland enlargement and in some cases form a goitre. The major cause of the low level of thyroid hormones is considered to be iodine deficiency. Hence the addition of iodine to the common salt has always been considered to be a safe method to prevent goitre. There can be several other causes of hypothyroidism such as weak immune system, radiation, surgery, Hashimoto’s disease, hormonal changes etc. It can be caused due to pregnancy and is called postpartum thyroiditis.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Whatever be the cause of hypothyroidism, it can show the following mild symptoms…

1. Increased sense of fatigue or tiredness
2. Increase in weight suddenly with puffiness of the face
3. Hoarse voice
4. Muscle weakness with aches, tenderness and stiffness
5. Joint pain or stiffness
6. Increased sensitivity to cold-causing dry skin
7. Constipation due to slow metabolism
8. Decreased heart rate
9. Elevated blood cholesterol level
10. Irregular menstrual periods
11. Decreased concentration and depression too

However, it is important to understand that you may show no symptoms or show some mild symptoms that can be easily confused with some other condition. Hence, a proper diagnosis is a must to confirm hypothyroidism.

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism
The most common tests to determine if you have hypothyroidism are TSH Testing and T4 Testing. However, if the doctor finds that the low levels of TSH are due to any defect in the pituitary gland, he may get you tested for another test called TRH. Also, Anti-thyroid Microsomal Antibodies Testing or thyroid peroxidase test (TPO) helps in identifying if the thyroid gland is damaged.

Treatment of hypothyroidism
Hormone replacement therapy is the best form of treatment available today. It involves the use of synthetic Levothyroxine (T4) or liothyronine (synthetic T3). Before these synthetic hormones were used for several years, however, prescription thyroxine tablets has been the most common mode of treatment which is generally required for life. It is only in rare cases of severe decompensated hypothyroidism that one requires hospitalization.

Apart from the above treatment options, it is best advised to avoid soy products, sugary processed foods and alcohol to keep a check on hypothyroidism.