Hashimoto's Thyroiditis - Norwalk,CA

I have had this same condition and been on Synthroid for over 20 years but I was much older than your son when diagnosed. It couldn't hurt to get a second opinion but it is very important to see a specialist(paediatric endocrinologist) as opposed to a regular MD. I would ONLY go to an Endocrinologist especially since he is so young. If untreated thyroid conditions can worsen so I do think it is important to treat.

HERE IS SOME INFORMATION I FOUND:

Thyroid disease in children

Although thyroid disease occurs less frequently in children than in adults, the signs and symptoms can be similar. However, there are a few important differences that need to be brought to light.

The thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It is responsible for the rate of all metabolic and chemical processes in our body, and affects every cell, tissue, and organ. The thyroid gland is therefore essential for life, growth and development.

Thyroid gland disorders consequently have a profound effect upon the human body.

When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone (overactive), the condition is called hyperthyroidism. When the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone (underactive), the condition is called hypothyroidism.

Children with thyroid conditions are generally managed by a paediatric endocrinologist or a paediatrician in consultation with a paediatric endocrinologist.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis

The most common cause of hypothyroidism in children and adolescents is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease. Here, the body's own immune system attacks the thyroid gland and interferes with the production of thyroid hormones. The onset of this condition can occur at any age, and the diagnosis may be easily overlooked for years, as the symptoms of hypothyroidism develop very slowly. As the thyroid gland becomes increasingly underactive, physical and mental changes will become more obvious.

Often the first sign is that the child's growth rate decreases unexpectedly and skeletal development is delayed. The child may also have an obvious swelling of the neck (goitre), as the thyroid gland becomes inflamed. Other symptoms may emerge, such as unusual tiredness or lethargy, dry itchy skin, increased sensitivity to cold, weight gain or generalised swelling, poor concentration, decreased energy, and constipation.

If hypothyroidism is suspected, a simple blood test is taken, measuring the levels of thyroid hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), in the blood. The presence of thyroid antibodies (anti-thyroperoxidase and anti-thyroglobulin) is also helpful in confirming the diagnosis.

Treatment
The treatment for Hashimoto's thyroiditis in children and adolescents is the same as in adults. Thyroid hormone replacement is taken daily for life. The dosage of thyroid hormone needs to be age-appropriate, as the body's demands for thyroid hormone vary with age. Regular thyroid function tests will need to be assessed by a doctor to ensure that normal hormone levels are maintained.

Side effects
For those children and adolescents being treated for hypothyroidism, the results are mainly positive. The majority of their symptoms will disappear, and the body's time for 'catch-up' growth will begin. An increase in bone development will also occur. However, in children who have had long-standing hypothyroidism, ultimate height potential may be partly lost. As the child regains normal thyroid function, behavioural problems may arise as their physical and mental processes speed up. An increase in energy and alertness may lead to a decreased attention span and a loss of concentration, especially in school. Teachers should be made aware of the child's condition, as well as treatment and possible changes in behaviour. Over time, any problems with behaviour, or at school, will resolve.

Hashi's runs in my family. One of my guy cousins was dx'd when he was 14. He went from being fit & active to fatigued and overweight before he was dx'd and treated.

I would start my kid on thyroid meds, low thyroid has all sorts if negative effects. From low metabolic rate and weight gain and high cholesterol
to fatigue, depression, & memory problems.

I started thyroid meds in my early 20s. I'm a much more active, smarter, and happier person when my thyroid levels are normal.

Synthetic thyroid hormone is bio identical to what your thyroid gland normally produces. However if you are opposed to synthetics Armour brand thyroid is made from animal thyroid glands.

ETA: I would def seek out a pediatric endo since low thyroid can affect growth/height in children.

Good luck!

If the doctor recommends it, put him on it. It's not "medication," it's replacement for a hormone he is lacking.

I'm on thyroid replacement (Levothroid) for the same thing, it's fine. Nothing to worry about.

I would put him on it if he needs it. Living without enough thyroid hormone is hell.

I've had Hashimotos and Graves disease, both auto immune diseases of the thyroid. I've been on synthroid for decades. There are few side effects as long as you monitor carefully.

I'd find an endocrinologist you can trust and work with him/her. Ah, I see you are in SoCal so I can recommend my wonderful specialist Dr. Truong. He specializes in thyroid diseases and has an office in Mission Viejo. I miss him now that I've moved away.

Anyway, I'd also get a work up from a naturopath or a dr. who is familiar with nutrition and using supplements to support your son's thyroid and immune system. This will give your son the best chance at balancing his system and minimizing his needs for increasing meds or further complications.

I would do the Paleo Autoimmune Protocol and ditch the medication if at all possible :)
http://paleononpaleo.com/paleo-autoimmune-protocol/

Since Hashimoto's is an auto immune issue, you might want to take him to see an immunologist to monitor it and give you advice on how to prevent another autoimmune disease, especially since he is so young. Dr. Galpin in the San Fernando Valley helped my friend tremendously.