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Thyroid Disease - Risks For Newborns and Children

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If you are an expecting mom or one day want to be and currently have some type of thyroid disease, you may want to pay attention. It’s tricky enough to watch out for ourselves, but when our little ones are involved, what can be done or what is involved?

First, under normal circumstances, according to the American Thyroid Association, know that in the first three to four months, the baby is completely dependant on you as the mother in regards to thyroid hormone production. Afterward, your baby will begin to start thyroid hormone production on his or her own. You must, however, continue to take in necessary amounts of iodine in order for the baby to successfully do this. In the United States, this is not usually a problem, since adequate iodine is obtained through diet (table salt).

Risks to Baby – Hyperthyroidism

The American Thyroid Association lists three risks to the baby when it comes to pregnant women with hyperthyroidism. They are as follows: (1) In mothers with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism: fetal tachycardia (fast heart rate), small-sized gestation age babies, prematurity, stillbirths and possible congenital malformations. (2) Neonatal hyperthyroidism (rare if mom is on drug therapy for hyperthyroidism) (3) Birth defects brought on by anti-thyroid drug therapy (ATD). It is very important to use the lowest possible dosage of ATD to control hyperthyroidism to minimize the effects on the baby. And yes, mothers can breast feed their babies when on a low dose of ATDs, although it is advisable to monitor the baby’s thyroid often.

Risks to Baby – Hypothyroidism

In hypothyroidism, according to the American Thyroid Association, mothers with uncontrolled hypothyroidism have a high possibility of having children with impaired brain development. This is the reason why women with even currently diagnosed hypothyroidism should be tested. Then, the doctor can prescribe or adjust any necessary medications.

If you are pregnant or want to become pregnant, the first step is being aware. Symptoms of hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) include: physical/mental sluggishness, unexplained weight gain, hair loss, constipation, exaggerated sensitivity to cold, irregular menstrual periods, depression, hoarseness or low voice, memory loss and tiredness.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease) are as follows: racing heartbeat, increased bowel movements, irregular cycles, irritability, anxiety, mood swings, protruding eyeballs, muscular weakness, insomnia and thin, brittle hair.

If you are having one or more of these symptoms, please request a simple blood test from your doctor on your next visit. It could save you and your baby’s health.

Speaking of healthy and energetic children (maybe too energetic), please feel free to read the following article on the little rugrats:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2012692/kids_do_the_darnest_thi...

Also, if you love poetry about the power of women, please have a look at the following site:

www.blurb.com/my/book/detail/623276

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Dita Faulkner
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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