What causes acquired hypothyroidism?
The following conditions may cause or increase your child’s risk of having acquired hypothyroidism: Autoimmune disease: The immune system is your body’s defense against infections and diseases. A problem with the immune system may make the body attack even its own cells. Autoimmune thyroiditis (swelling of the thyroid gland) is the most common autoimmune disease that may cause acquired hypothyroidism.Delayed onset of congenital hypothyroidism: Some children who have hypothyroidism when they are born, may only show signs and symptoms much later in childhood.Diet: Having too little or no iodine in your child’s diet may cause hypothyroidism. Iodine is an important mineral used by the thyroid gland to work correctly and make thyroid hormones.Family history: Having a family member with hypothyroidism or autoimmune disease may also increase your child’s risk.Medicines: Taking certain medicines, such as those used to treat depression or other mental problems, may cause hypothyroidism. Medicin
