Hypothyroidism in Children: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Hypothyroidism means that the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Low levels of this hormone can cause many body functions to slow down.

Not growing normally is the most common sign. It can also cause your child to feel sluggish, gain weight, have a poor memory, or have a hard time focusing. The symptoms can be similar to depression.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause in children. In this condition, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Your child needs to take thyroid hormone medicine every day. He or she should have a blood test at least once a year. This checks to be sure the medicine dose is right. Your child will keep taking medicine to replace the hormone that the thyroid gland doesn't make.

Hypothyroidism can be a serious disease. But children usually do well after starting treatment.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Have your child take his or her thyroid hormone medicine at the same time every day. Most doctors suggest taking it 30 minutes before breakfast. Your child should not take it with vitamins or calcium or iron pills.
• Have your child see his or her doctor at least 1 or 2 times a year. Your child will need regular blood tests. These tests make sure that he or she is getting the right amount of thyroid hormone.
• Make sure your child eats a healthy diet with plenty of calcium. Foods that are rich in calcium include milk, yogurt, cheese, and dark green vegetables.