Understanding Elevated TSH Levels in Children: Causes & Symptoms

TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland. When your child's thyroid gland is underactive, his pituitary gland increases TSH production.

Diagnosis

• TSH levels are determined by a blood test and usually evaluated within two days of the test, according to kidshealth.org. Elevated levels indicate hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include slow pubertal development, excessive fatigue, delayed growth, dry skin and constipation.

Treatment

• Hypothyroidism is treated with prescription thyroid hormone replacements. These are designed to help your child's thyroid gland function properly.

Prevention/Solution

• It usually takes a few months for your child's doctor to determine the correct dosage of thyroid medication. In the meantime, occasional blood tests will be conducted. If TSH levels are still elevated, your doctor will increase the dosage of medication. If your child's TSH levels are low, the dosage will be decreased.

Warning

• According to kidshealth.org, there are a few but rare risks to TSH blood testing. Call your doctor if your child experiences light-headedness, fainting, pain at the testing site and hematoma.