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Hypothyroidism - Symptoms

From DrKoop's partner site on diet and exercise, MyDietExercise.com

(Page 2)


Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive. The condition may affect all body functions. The rate of metabolism slows, causing mental and physical sluggishness. Myxedema, a medical emergency, is the most severe form of hypothyroidism. A problem with the thyroid itself (primary) or malfunction of the pituitary gland (secondary) or hypothalamus (tertiary) can cause hypothyroidism.

Symptoms in Infants and Children

All babies are now screened for hypothyroidism in order to prevent retardation that can occur if treatment is delayed. Symptoms of hypothyroidism in children vary depending on when the problem first develops.

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  • Most children who are born with a defect that causes congenital hypothyroidism have no obvious symptoms. Symptoms that do appear in newborns may include jaundice (yellowish skin), noisy breathing, and an enlarged tongue.
  • Early symptoms of undetected and untreated hypothyroidism in infants include feeding problems, failure to thrive, constipation, hoarseness, and sleepiness.
  • Later on, symptoms in untreated children include protruding abdomens; rough, dry skin; and delayed teething. Rarely, in advanced cases, yellow raised bumps (called xanthomas) may appear under the skin, the result of cholesterol build-up.
  • If they do not receive proper treatment in time, children with hypothyroidism may be extremely short for their age, have a puffy, bloated appearance, and have below-normal intelligence. Any child whose growth is abnormally slow should be examined for hypothyroidism.

Review Date: 04/19/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital

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