Hypothyroidism in Children

It is possible for Kids to Contract Hypothyroidism

Many people talk about hypothyroidism in adults, but there is less talk about hypothyroidism in children although it is just as common. Congenital hypothyroidismstarts from birth, but is often asymptomatic so a parent may not notice it until the infant grows older.  The disorder is only detected in 5% of infants by clinical criteria where a diagnosis is later confirmed.  Hypothyroidismmay also be acquired  as your child gets older and may or may not be due to genetics. The underdeveloped thyroid gland ultimately does not produce adequate thyroid hormone to the body, and your child my experience issues such as weight gain, constipation, increased fatigue, decreased growth, lowered metabolism and it can affect the normal heart rate.

What Other Symptoms Should I Look For?  

If there is one key sign you should remember about hypothyroidism is that it a disorder notorious for slowing down activities in the body so other than decreased energy levels, growth and unexplainable weight gain you may notice your child's body may be inflamed and appear puffy or swollen. They also have impaired nutrient absorption so the skin and hair may become very dry and start to thin. You may notice altered behavior, increased belly pain, and chances in performance (such as in school). Additional signs you should look for are:

During Childhood

• Delayed tooth development
• Constant Chocking
• Stunt in growth which may cause abnormally short limbs
• Jaundice of the skin
• Large, protruding tongue

During Adolescence

• Hoarse Voice
• Droopy Eyelids
• Delayed Puberty
• Increased Cholesterol
• Impaired Muscle Tone

Adverse Complications in Hypothyrodism

It is best to treat the endocrine disorder as early as possible to avoid the many complications it could cause your child in the future such as:

• The appearance of a goiter that causes a visible mass to appear in the neck. While it is often not life threatening,  it is uncomfortable which makes it hard to swallow, it can compromise breathing, and it can negatively affect their appearance.

• Myxedema - It is a rare, life-threatening condition where someone will experience extreme cold intolerance to cold. They will first become drowsy, feel lethargic, and ultimately come unconscious.

• Mental Issues - Over time, it is cause depression and result in decreased mental functioning.

• Becoming Sterile - Low thyroid hormone levels can result in infertility in women as it can obstruct normal ovulation.

• Heart Problems - Hypothyroidism is related to increased risk of high LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) and low HDL (the "good" cholesterol) which in turn affects the pumping ability of the heart. In time, the heart may become enlarges and heart failure can occur.

Holistic Approach in Treating Hypothyroidism

Determining whether or not your child has hypothyroidism is the first step, so it is important to get a diagnosis from a doctor if you suspect they have it. The most common form of treatment for hypothyroidism includes lifelong administration of synthetic  thyroid  hormones and possible hormone replacement therapy for the duration of their lives. You can also treat hypothroidism naturally using Baltic Essentials Amber Necklaces or Bracelets. Amber is an organic product derived from fossilized resin. It is full of anti-inflammatory properties that will help reduce to eliminate a majority of the symptoms associated with the disorder. Amber helps balance the overall pH levels in the body as well and heightens immunity when it is worn. One of the most notable benefits is that it can help stimulate the thyroid to make more thyroid hormones to help bring it back to the normal levels or as close as possible. The benefits of the resin is transferred from the necklace to the body where it gets absorbed into the bloodstream.