Expert Care For Your Child's Hypothyroidism
I am a pediatric endocrinologist who offers personalized medical care from the comfort of your home. I limit patient enrollment to ensure I can build relationships and spend quality time with you. I have found that the relationship is critical for successful outcomes in chronic disorders like hypothyroidism. That's why I structured my medical practice to allow you to contact me between visits. My goal is to partner with you for the long haul.
Please provide your information to schedule your free consultation:
What is Hypothyroidism in children?
If the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones, we call it hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism in infants is a condition that affects about 1 in every 3,000 children. Types of hypothyroidism include:
If the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones, we call it hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism in infants is a condition that affects about 1 in every 3,000 children. Congenital: The child is born with the condition
Autoimmune: The immune system attacks the thyroid gland
Central: The thyroid does not get the correct signals from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland
Transient: A temporary condition
Post surgical: The thyroid gland was removed
How Does A Healthy Thyroid Work?
Thyroid hormone levels are tightly regulated to maintain health
The Hypothalamus and pituitary signal the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. In turn, the hypothalamus and pituitary monitor T3 and T4 production to keep the system balanced.
- Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH)
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Thyroxine (T4)
- Triiodothyronine (T3)
This adolescent has an enlarged thyroid gland, a condition known as goiter.
Fatigue can also be a symptom of hypothyroidism.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism In Kids?
Some infants with congenital hypothyroidism might not display symptoms, which is why screening for hypothyroidism is important and routine in the United States. If they do display symptoms, look for prolonged jaundice, decreased muscle tone, an enlarged tongue or umbilical hernia. Treatment of hypothyroidism in kids is essential as they are at high risk of permanent intellectual disability.
People whose thyroid function diminishes after birth, which we call acquired hypothyroidism, may experience goiter, anemia, menstrual irregularities, or delayed puberty.
Regardless of age, hypothyroidism may cause:
- Poor growth
- Decreased energy and fatigue
- Constipation
- Low red blood cell count
How Is Pediatric Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?
We diagnose pediatric hypothyroidism by analyzing the concentration of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine levels in the blood. Any child who consistently has TSH>7 mlU/L or a low thyroxine level will most likely need thyroid hormone replacement treatment. In short, a diagnosis of hypothyrodism hinges solely on lab results.
We diagnose pediatric hypothyroidism by analyzing the concentration of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine levels in the blood. Any child who consistently has TSH>7 mlU/L or a low thyroxine level will most likely need thyroid hormone replacement treatment. In short, a diagnosis of hypothyrodism hinges solely on lab results.
Why treat hypothyroidism in children?
Thyroid hormone is crucial for brain development in kids under 3 to prevent permanent intellectual disability. Even in older children, thyroid hormone is essential for normal growth and metabolism.
Parents should consider reaching out to a pediatric endocrinologist if they suspect their child may be experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism. It is crucial to seek medical attention from a pediatric endcrinologist who specializes in treating hypothyroidism in infants, children, and teens. Prompt intervention can help restore optimal thyroid hormone levels, ensuring healthy growth, development, and overall well-being for your child
Who treats hypothyroidism in children?
Pediatric Endocrinologists receive a total of six years of additional training after medical school. Their expertise in hormone imbalances uniquely qualifies them to treat hypothyroidism. Dr. McIver is a board certified online pediatric endocrinologist who has been practicing medicine since 2002 and has been treating hypothyroidism since 2007.
How Is Pediatric Hypothyroidism Treated?
We treat pediatric hypothyroidism by providing the body the hormones that the thyroid is not producing. For this reason, hypothyroidism can be effectively treated remotely by an online pediatric endocrinologist. Periodic lab work ensures that the prescription is accurate. Maintaining normal thyroid hormone levels will support normal growth and development.
How Can Dr. McIver Help?
Dr. McIver has been practicing medicine since 2002, and has been treating hypothyroidism since 2007, and is dual board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology. She is a pediatric endocrinologist and an expert in treating hypothyroidism in people under 26 years of age. In fact, hypothyroidism is the primary focus of her virtual clinic. She is currently accepting new patients to include infants, children, teens, and young adults.
Dr. McIver has been practicing medicine since 2002, and has been treating hypothyroidism since 2007, and is dual board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology. She is a pediatric endocrinologist and an expert in treating hypothyroidism in people under 26 years of age. In fact, hypothyroidism is the primary focus of her virtual clinic. She is currently accepting new patients to include infants, children, teens, and young adults.Pricing
Transparent, no surprise bills. Cancel anytime.
Do we accept insurance?
My favorite part of practicing medicine is the time I get to spend with patients. By keeping my practice small and simple, and by not dealing with insurance claims, I can spend more time providing care rather than performing administrative tasks.
Our goal is to assure that every child receives the appropriate medical care. Please contact us if you are interested in our financial assistance program.
First Appointment
The pricing for all new patients is the same. The $199 one-time fee includes:
- Initial video visit
- Prescription
- Lab Review
- Plan of Care
- Chart Review
On-Going Care
All our plans include regular video visits with the doctor and unlimited direct email support.
Less than 3 years of age
Less than 3 years of age
Virtual visits every 3 months with the doctor to review lab results and update prescriptions.
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3 years and older
3 years and older
Regular virtual visits with the doctor to review lab results and update prescriptions.
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How it Works?
Step 2 : First video visit with the doctor.
Step 3 : After your first visit, you will be able to book your follow-up appointment online. Please complete labs prior to the visit as discussed with the doctor. Thyroid studies can be completed at your local lab and covered by your insurance or direct pay (fee assistance can be requested through Labcorp)