Common Symptoms and Causes of Endocrine Disorders in Children

The endocrine system regulates various bodily functions. This system contains innumerable glands that produce various hormones that travel through the bloodstream and help in regulating different activities. Hence, it is the endocrine system that controls everything from the moods to behavior or even the growth of a cell. So, the prime functions are to regulate the development and growth of the cells, body metabolism, sexual functions, reproductive processes, etc. Some of the major glands that are part of the endocrine system are the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, hypothalamus, adrenal glands, as well as reproductive glands. Each gland secretes a different hormone and regulates various bodily functions.

Just like it is the case with grown-ups, even children suffer due to disorders in the endocrine system. When there are changes in the levels of hormones, it can lead to endocrine disorders in children. These are also better known as hormonal imbalances and when there is over secretion or under secretion of any particular hormone, it may lead to endocrine disorders. This may be caused due to the dysfunction of a particular endocrine gland or it may be due to some autoimmune problem.

Some of the most common endocrine disorders in children are hypothyroidism, diabetes, hyperthyroidism etc. Diabetes is one of the most common problems in adults, but it can also affect children. Juvenile diabetes is also better known as type I diabetes in children. Insulin is responsible for regulating the blood sugar levels in the body and type II diabetes is caused due to insulin imbalance.

The pituitary gland is responsible for secreting the human growth hormone. Over secretion of this hormone may lead to gigantism, where the child may grow really big for his/her age. Under secretion of this hormone will result in stunted growth in children.

The other endocrine disorders in children are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in children. These conditions may be treated with medication and surgery may be the last option in some cases.

Other endocrine disorders in children include Cushing's syndrome and precocious puberty. Dysfunction of the hypothalamus leads to precocious puberty. Appropriate treatment can be provided by making a visit to the pediatrician at the earliest.