Hormonal Disorders

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is the condition marked by too little thyroid hormone in the blood. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include slowed heartbeat, tiredness, difficulty thinking and remembering, dry and flaky skin, constipation, and inability to tolerate the cold. Hypothyroidism can occur at any age, from birth well […]

Here are definitions of medical terms related to hypothyroidism. Adam’s apple: This part of the cartilage that forms the larynx, or voice box, can be felt at the front of the neck. It is more prominent visually and by touch in men than in women. Anemia: Any condition characterized by a low red blood cell count. A

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on hypothyroidism. A number of organizations offer information, support, and advocacy for persons with thyroid diseases including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. They include the following: Thyroid Foundation of America (TFA)  Phone: 800-832-8321 www.tsh.org This organization provides contact information for a number of national organizations. Information in French is

Hypothyroidism in infants and children occurs when too little thyroid hormone is produced by the thyroid gland, leading to low levels of thyroid in the bloodstream. The “underactive” thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone, interfering with growth, physical and mental development, and other body processes. Infants and small children affected by hypothyroidism may have

The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary depending on the age of the child. Symptoms in infants and young children Symptoms in older children Symptoms In Infants And Young Children Hypothyroidism that occurs in infancy or early childhood is called cretinism. Babies born with hypothyroidism classically show a number of symptoms in the first weeks

Normal levels of thyroid hormone are vital for proper growth and development. Consequently, hypothyroidism, especially in infants and young children, can lead to serious, sometimes permanent, developmental problems if not detected and treated promptly. For infants born with hypothyroidism, diagnosis and treatment within the first month or so of life may prevent any irreversible problems

In the United States, Canada, and much of the Western world, newborns are routinely screened for thyroid hormone deficiency. Infants with abnormal screening tests receive follow-up evaluation for hypothyroidism. Such testing commonly leads to the correct diagnosis within the first four weeks of age, and treatment can begin immediately. Diagnosis later in childhood is usually

The vast majority of cases of childhood hypothyroidism (95% or more) are caused by a problem within the thyroid gland or by lack of a thyroid gland. A much smaller number of cases (less than 5%) are caused by a problem in the brain or pituitary gland, the small gland at the base of the

The treatment for hypothyroidism is simple: Supply the body with the thyroid hormone that isn’t being produced and released by the thyroid gland. Synthetic (artificially produced) thyroid hormone (T4) is manufactured in a wide range of strengths so that dosage can be individually tailored for each person. It is important that an experienced physician oversee

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine condition in adults and a relatively common endocrine condition in infants and children. This thyroid problem can be treated relatively easily and inexpensively with a daily dose of synthetic (artificially manufactured) thyroid hormone. Thyroid treatment supplies the hormone missing in the body. Organs return to a proper level of stimulation

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism is based on a person’s medical history, a physical examination, and blood tests. If a physician suspects hypothyroidism, he or she will look particularly at the cardiovascular system, the skin, hair, eyes, reflexes, and body temperature. The physical exam also may reveal an enlarged thyroid, which is called a goiter. In Hashimoto’s