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Infant Hypothyroid Symptoms

All 50 states in the U.S. conduct newborn screenings soon after an infant is born as of 2008, according to Babycenter.com. One of the disorders being screened for is congenital hypothyroidism. Congenital hypothyroidism usually occurs as a result of an underdeveloped thyroid gland. According to babycenter.com, about 1 out of every 5,000 U.S. babies has congenital hypothyroidism. If a problem is detected while analyzing the results of the newborn screening, infants can be given a replacement of the thyroid hormone to fix the hormone deficiency. However, if the disorder is not detected early, retardation of the brain and overall growth may occur.

  1. Growth Issues

    • Some babies with congenital hypothyroidism may be larger than normal at first, even though they may not eat much. Afterward, the baby will probably grow extremely slowly or not at all.

    Sleepiness

    • Babies with congenital hypothyroidism will usually sleep much more than the average infant. Even when these infants are awake, they may seem lethargic and have little energy.

    Appearance

    • Infants with congenital hypothyroidism may have a puffy-looking face and their tongues may appear swollen. Also, their stomach may seem to be always bloated. In addition, they may have low muscle tone.

    Other Symptoms

    • Infants with hypothyroidism may have arms and legs that feel cold to the touch. Also, they may have a hoarse-sounding cry. In addition, they may suffer from chronic constipation.

    Long-Term Issues

    • According to Magic Foundation, infants born with symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism are are a greater risk of having developmental delays. After a diagnosis has been made, medication will be required daily to replace the missing thyroid hormone. With early and continual treatment, most infants born with congenital hypothyroidism will go on to live normal lives.

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