Your Children's Thyroid Gland: When to Worry?

Worrying about your child's thyroid? Not always. In many cases, if they didn't call from the hospital with the results, there is no reason for concern. But there is a group of children who are recommended for examination.

First of all, these are children whose mothers have experienced thyroid problems. Also, if your baby is experiencing growth retardation, swelling, hoarseness, lethargy, constipation, or delayed skill development, this may also be a reason for examination.

Now about what is better to take for analysis. Basic tests include TSH, free T4, antibodies to thyroid peroxidase, calcitonin, fasting blood sugar, and thyroid ultrasound.

Taking a fasting blood sugar test can be problematic, especially if your baby is breastfeeding. In such cases, you can take the test 2 hours after eating. It is only important to inform the doctor about this for a more accurate analysis of the results.

Remember, early detection of thyroid problems can help prevent serious complications in the future.

Reference:

https://www.bcchr.ca/news/thyroid-disease-kids-what-parents-need-know