Hypothyroidism facts for kids
Hypothyroidism is a medical condition. If a person has hypothyroidism, their thyroid gland does not make enough hormones. It can be caused by many factors, but it is more common when a person has insufficient iodine. Severe hypothyroidism in infants can result in cretinism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include the following: tiredness, headaches, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, and poor concentration.
| Symptoms | Signs |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | Dry, coarse skin |
| Feeling cold | Cool extremities |
| Poor memory and concentration | Myxedema (mucopolysaccharide deposits in the skin) |
| Constipation | Hair loss |
| Weight gain with poor appetite | Slow pulse rate |
| Shortness of breath | Swelling of the limbs |
| Hoarse voice | Delayed relaxation of tendon reflexes |
| Heavy periods (and later light periods) | Carpal tunnel syndrome |
| Abnormal sensation | Pleural effusion, ascites, pericardial effusion |
| Poor hearing |
Images for kids
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A 3-month-old infant with untreated congenital hypothyroidism showing myxedematous facies, a big tongue, and skin mottling
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Characteristic changes in the facial skin of a Labrador Retriever with hypothyroidism
See also
In Spanish: Hipotiroidismo para niños
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Hypothyroidism Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.