Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism in Toddlers

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers are very similar to those of hypothyroidism. Although both ailments are the result of dysfunction of the thyroid gland, one is the result of over-action of the gland (hyperthyroidism) and one is under-action of the gland (hypothyroidism). The thyroid is a gland that regulates metabolism. It resembles a butterfly in shape and is located in the throat. It wraps around the trachea (the tube that takes air down to the lungs) and the voice box.

Insomnia

Many of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers are similar to those in adults, according to eMedicine. One of the most prominent is insomnia. Toddles will have difficulty going to and maintaining sleep. A good example of an overactive thyroid is an engine that will not shut off. In children, especially the active toddler, the engine goes and goes--with an overactive thyroid, the body does not shut down so the child has a hard time getting a adequate amount of rest.

Irritability

Another of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers includes irritability, according to eMedicine. Because their bodies are not slowing down, young children can be more irritable and easily annoyed than normal. Even though toddlers are notoriously moody at times, if a young child becomes usually irritated over a period of time, it is worth considering whether he is having thyroid problems. Children might also appear nervous or agitated in addition to irritated.

Weight Loss

According to eHealthMD, one of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers includes weight loss. Toddlers are on the go, but with an overactive thyroid, their bodies are running continually and burn off a high amount of calories. Often times they burn more than they take in through food. A toddler may exhibit constant hunger, but never seems to gain much weight and may even lose weight. This can be especially dangerous for toddlers because it may result in failure-to-thrive syndrome during this period when their bodies are growing quickly and they need the nutrients from calories to meet developmental milestones.

Lack of Heat Tolerance

Another one of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers includes a lack of tolerance for heat. According to eHealthMD, the high metabolic rate that is caused by an overactive thyroid results in a higher rate of caloric burning. This higher internal combustion makes it very difficult for children or adults with a hyperthyroid to tolerate hot weather or room temperatures. They may sweat excessively or become irritable when exposed to uncomfortably warm temperatures.

Diarrhea

Of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism in toddlers, diarrhea can be one of the most difficult for them to tolerate. This can be extremely uncomfortable and distressing for toddlers since developmentally they are also gaining knowledge of their bodily functions.

References

• eMedicine
• eHealthMD