World Thyroid Day: Doctors highlight how thyroid disorders can affect children, teens
Vital importance of early diagnosis and treatment irrespective of age underscored
On World Thyroid Day observed on May 25, UAE doctors have highlighted how thyroid disorders can affect children and teens as well. The doctors who spoke to Gulf News underscored the importance of early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective management of these conditions in all ages.
The thyroid gland, situated in the lower part of the neck, plays a vital role in producing essential hormones, namely, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones regulate the metabolism, growth and development of the human body, mood, breathing, heart rate, body temperature and more.
Thyroid disorders can be categorised into two main types: structural and functional diseases. The former includes enlargement of the thyroid gland (goitre) and the formation of nodules, which can be either benign or, rarely, cancerous. Functional diseases, which affect the larger population, encompass hyperthyroidism (over activity) and hypothyroidism (under activity) of the thyroid gland.
“Thyroid diseases do affect at any age from birth to old age,” said Dr Idrees Mubarik, consultant endocrinologist, Saudi German Hospital, Dubai.
“Though the most common age group affected is in between 20 to 40 years, especially women, it can be present in children as well. Thyroid diseases can affect growth and mental development of young patients. It can cause other symptoms also like dry skin, lethargy, weight gain, swelling around feet and face etc,” he said.
Long-term complications
Quoting international figures, Dr Mona Ahmad Samaha, specialist paediatrician, Canadian Specialist Hospital, Dubai, said it is estimated that nearly 37 out of 1,000 children have thyroid disease.
“When thyroid gland doesn’t work properly, children are at risk for delayed brain development, essentially in newborn, growth problems, weight problems, and early or delayed puberty. These long-term complications can be avoided by early diagnosis and adequate management.”
The implementation of universal newborn screening rules has led to the increased detection of thyroid diseases in children, said Dr Idrees.
Various risk factors can contribute to thyroid disorders in children and teens. The doctors highlighted that hypothyroidism can be either congenital or acquired due to autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
Dr Idrees noted that while hereditary factors typically manifest in later life, neonatal and childhood hypothyroidism is usually sporadic. Risk factors include iodine deficiency and maternal intake of anti-thyroid medications.
“Some children are at higher risk for hypothyroidism. Inadequate or excessive iodine intake are risk factors associated with thyroid conditions,” said Dr Mona. “Those with genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, Williams syndrome or Turner syndrome and autoimmune disorders such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease need to undergo regular thyroid screening.”
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include decreased energy and rate of growth, weight gain without increased appetite, brittle hair and dry skin, swollen or puffy appearance, muscle pain and constipation, while hyperthyroidism manifests as symptoms like tremors, palpitations, increased appetite with weight loss, sweat and sleep problems and staring eyes.
The impact of thyroid disorders is not limited to physical health as it can cause mood disorders as well. Forgetfulness, fatigue, mental slowness, inattention, emotional lability, panic attacks, anxiety, tension, sleep disturbances, a short temper, and impatience have all been linked to thyroid disorders.
Therefore, early detection and appropriate management are vital to ensure normal development, and overall well-being of those showing these symptoms.
The impact of thyroid disorders is not limited to physical health as it can cause mood disorders as well. Forgetfulness, fatigue, anxiety, sleep disturbances have all been linked to thyroid disorders.