Symptom Checker
Step 4: Read and complete the decision guide to learn more about your symptoms.
Unexplained Weight Gain in Children
Your child may have hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't make enough of its hormone. Call your doctor for an appointment in the next few days. Along with a thorough physical examination, your doctor will want to do some blood tests. If the blood tests confirm hypothyroidism, an appointment with an endocrinologist would be a good idea.
Most cases of hypothyroidism are easily treated by replacement hormone given in the form of a daily pill. People with this condition need close monitoring by their doctor or endocrinologist.
Dry skin, low energy, and constipation are frequently seen in people who don't have hypothyroidism. While you should absolutely still call for an appointment to discuss the possibility of hypothyroidism, if those are the signs your child is showing, we suggest that you continue the decision guide to look at other possibilities.
Disclaimer: This content should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of a call or visit to a health professional. Use of this content is subject to specific terms of use & medical disclaimers.
