The thyroid gland is an organ without which the normal development of a child is impossible. The hormones that it produces affect the formation of mental abilities, the functioning of the intestines, heart, maintenance of immunity, body temperature and weight of the child. 

If a child of any age has an enlarged thyroid gland, this will lead to serious changes in his state of health. One of the common causes of thyroid gland pathology in children is its enlargement – these are changes in its size, mass and volume.

The reasons for an enlarged thyroid gland are:

• iodine deficiency – the thyroid gland increases to produce more hormones;
• lack of systematic prevention of iodine deficiency in problem regions;
• deterioration of the ecological situation;
• heredity;
• improper nutrition of the child and constant stress.

The most active thyroid gland in children 5-7 years old and during the period of child’s sexual development. In girls, the thyroid gland increases more often than in boys.

There are several diseases of the thyroid gland in which thyroid enlargement occurs . Each of them has its own characteristics. At the same time, a number of general symptoms are distinguished that signal problems in the child’s body:

• increased drowsiness, indifference, irritability, constant lethargy;
• memory impairment, inability to concentrate, decreased academic performance;
• body temperature rises or vice versa decreases for no good reason;
• indigestion – constipation or vice versa diarrhea, bloating;
• hair loss, dry skin, swelling;
• changes in the child’s weight – sudden weight loss or weight gain not related to nutrition;
• changes in the work of the heart – increased blood pressure, heart palpitations;
• lag in growth of the child in comparison with peers.

Signs of an enlarged thyroid gland are not immediately recognized and are often similar to other diseases. If the child still has changes in health, you need to contact a pediatric endocrinologist as soon as possible.