Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a condition of thyroid hormone deficiency present at birth. If untreated for several months after birth, severe congenital hypothyroidism can lead to growth failure and permanent intellectual disability.
Some symptoms are :
-excessive sleeping
-low or hoarse cry
-infrequent bowel movements
-exaggerated jaundice
-Low body temperature
The letter went on to explain that this doesn't mean he has it 100% for sure and they need us to get his blood spots done again and rechecked. When I first read the letter, i immediately felt heartbroken. No parent wants to hear that their child has or might have something wrong. Then I researched information on CH and found that it is easily managed and controlled. This made me feel immensely better. Apparently he would have to take a pill that is crushed up and put in his bottle once a day. I don't know if this is something he will have for life or improve or go away as he grows.
Friday Dan left work early, picked us up and drove to the hospital to get his blood spots done. I felt so bad for the little guy when the nurse pricked his heel. He screamed his little head off. I tried asking the nurse when we would get the results back, but she was not very friendly or forthcoming. We shall see if went away or he has it. Hopefully the next letter comes quickly and doesn't keep me waiting.
So no idea when you find out the results? Yes, it is definitely hard as a parent knowing there is something wrong with your child! Thankfully it can be treated and should hopefully not be a problem later in his life - great news!
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