What Is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is an endocrine gland located near the collarbone. It produces a hormone that regulates metabolism.
When this gland isn’t functioning properly, it can cause symptoms ranging from depression and fatigue to difficulty swallowing and speaking. If your child think your child may be experiencing a thyroid disorder, our team at ENT for Children can determine what’s causing the problem and how best to respond to it.
What Are Common Thyroid Conditions?
- Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid, during which the thyroid produces an excess amount of hormones.
- Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid. In this condition, the thyroid gland produces an insufficient amount of hormones.
- A thyroid nodule is the most common mass that can develop within the gland. It is typically benign and usually does not cause any issues. The thyroid function generally remains normal. In rare cases, multiple nodules can develop, which is known as a multinodular goiter. Often, thyroid nodules can be monitored closely and may not require surgery. It is important to follow nodules carefully to ensure they do not become cancerous
- A thyroid cyst is a fluid-filled mass within the gland. The cyst contains fluid or blood. Cysts are usually benign and do not require surgery unless they become very large or cause other symptoms like pain or difficulty swallowing.
- Tumors can develop within the thyroid gland at any age, including children and adolescents. These tumors can be benign or cancerous. Most tumors appear as a lump in the neck and do not cause any pain or problems. If a solid mass is found within the thyroid gland, it should be evaluated for possible cancer. This may include imaging tests and/or needle biopsies. If there is concern for thyroid cancer, your child’s pediatric ENT surgeon may discuss surgery to remove the mass. Often, a pediatric endocrinologist is also consulted to help with hormone balance and possible additional treatments for thyroid cancer.
Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders
- Hyperthyroidism can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, fatigue, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, tremors, weight loss and increased bowel movement frequency.
- Hypothyroidism can result in depression, fatigue, sore muscles, dry skin, puffy face, swollen legs, weight gain, constipation and sensitivity to cold.
- Thyroid nodules can cause a lump in the neck, and symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
How Are These Conditions Treated?
Some thyroid conditions can be treated with medication. In other cases, particularly when cancer has been detected, our provider may recommend removing the thyroid.
Your child’s otolaryngologist will determine what treatment will work best and guide your child through the next steps. If medication is prescribed, they’ll discuss how to take it and if your child can expect any side effects.
If your child’s doctor recommends surgery, they’ll describe how the procedure is done, ways to prepare for it and any necessary aftercare. No matter what’s causing your child’s thyroid disorder or the next steps that are recommended, our team at ENT for Children can provide treatment that fits your child’s needs. We’re here to guide your child through the process of supporting your child’s health.
Call ENT for Children for more information or to schedule an appointment.