Health Library

Acquired Hypothyroidism

What Causes Acquired Hypothyroidism?

Acquired hypothyroidism usually happens when the body's immune system makes special cells called antibodies that damage the thyroid gland. Sometimes the thyroid gland will swell, and this is called a goiter. Most of the time this will go away once a child has been on medication for a while.

Another reason the thyroid gland may not work right is because the message from the brain may not signal the thyroid gland to work due to trauma, surgery, medication or an abnormal pituitary gland. This is called central hypothyroidism.

What Are the Symptoms of Acquired Hypothyroidism?

• Feeling tired
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Weight gain
• Slow heart rate
• Slow growth
• Not starting puberty
• Periods that aren't regular

How is Acquired Hypothyroidism Treated?

Acquired hypothyroidism is easily treated by taking a medicine called levothyroxine every day. This medicine replaces the hormone that the thyroid gland cannot make. It is important to make sure your child takes the medicine the same way every day. Taking this medicine daily will prevent problems caused by hypothyroidism. The thyroid medicine dose may need to be changed as your child grows. Your child's provider will let you know when the medicine dose needs to be changed during follow-up visits in clinic and routine blood tests. Never change the medicine dose on your own. Your child will need to see the provider every three to six months. Most children with hypothyroidism require lifelong treatment.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your provider if you notice your child:

• Has trouble with sleep (sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping)
• Is shaking
• Has cold, dry skin
• Has issues with weight (either losing weight or gaining weight quickly)
• Has diarrhea or constipation
• Is hungry all the time
• Is irritable
• Has low energy/activity
• Has problems with their period (girls)

Special Instructions

Avoid taking thyroid medication at the same time as a multivitamin, caffeine, grapefruit, antacids, iron supplement or soy.

What to Expect

Labs to expect:

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
• Thyroxine (T4)
• Free T4
• Thyroid Antibodies

Based on lab results, medication doses may need to be changed. This requires routine blood work. Once your child starts medication, they may feel better, have more energy, and focus better at school.