Cause
One in 4,000 babies are diagnosed with this condition. There are many causes of CH.
- A baby can be born without a thyroid gland.
- The thyroid gland may be in the wrong place.
- The thyroid gland may not work correctly.
Your child's healthcare provider will talk with you about the cause of your baby’s hypothyroidism.
Symptoms
CH can have little or no symptoms. Babies who have symptoms may spend less time awake, eat poorly, may have floppy arms and legs, and low energy. Some babies have constipation, yellowing of the skin, and low temperature.
Treatment
This condition can be easily treated by taking a medication every day. This medicine is called levothyroxine and it replaces the thyroid hormone that your child's thyroid gland is unable to make. It is very important to make sure your child gets this medicine in the same way every day.
Never change the medicine dose on your own. Your child’s healthcare provider will let you know when medication changes need to be made by follow up visits in clinic and routine blood tests. .
Give this medicine with small amounts of formula or food. You may break the tablets in half or crush them to make it easier for your child to take. Several substances may prevent the thyroid medicine from being absorbed in the stomach. Please notify your healthcare provider if you get started on any new formula, medicines, or supplements.
When to Call the Doctor
There are things to watch for that can help your healthcare provider find the right dose of medicine to give your child.
| The dose may be too high if your child has: |
The dose may be too low if your child has: |
|
Trouble sleeping
Shaking (tremors)
Weight loss
Irritability, fussiness
Diarrhea
Excessive hunger
|
Constipation
Cold, dry skin
Gained weight too quickly
Low energy/activity level
Sleeping too much
Slow growth
|
Call your child's healthcare provider if any of the above symptoms develop. Your healthcare provider may do a blood test to check thyroid levels.