Congenital Hypothyroidism
What is Congenital Hypothyroidism
“Congenital” means from birth.
So, Congenital Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland of the baby is underactive or absent right from birth, causing a deficiency of thyroid hormones.
This hormone is very important for brain development, growth, and metabolism — so its deficiency can affect the baby’s physical and mental development if not treated early.
Homeopathic View
In homeopathy, congenital hypothyroidism is seen as a deep-seated constitutional imbalance, often inherited from parents.
It shows a weakness in the vital force (jeevan shakti) and a miasmatic tendency (mostly sycotic or psoric), which affects the development of the thyroid gland even before birth.
- Sometimes, it is linked with maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy.
- Or due to genetic or iodine deficiency in the mother.
Symptoms
Parents may start noticing symptoms within the first few weeks or months:
- Lethargic baby (always sleepy, less active)
- Poor feeding or sucking difficulty
- Puffy face, swollen tongue, thick lips
- Slow growth, low muscle tone (floppy baby)
- Cold hands and feet
- Constipation
- Delayed milestones (sitting, walking, talking late)
- Slow mental development if not treated on time
- Hoarse crying voice
- Prolonged jaundice after birth
Medical Understanding
- The thyroid gland may be absent, underdeveloped, or not functioning properly.
- If not treated early, it may lead to cretinism, a condition where growth and intelligence are permanently affected.
- That’s why newborn screening is done in most hospitals to detect it early.
Homeopathic Perspective
Homeopathy aims to stimulate the underactive thyroid gland and strengthen the child’s constitution naturally, rather than just replacing hormones.
However, in very low hormone cases, thyroid hormone replacement (thyroxine) is medically essential — and homeopathy can be given along with it to improve the gland’s natural function and prevent dependency over time.
Homeopathic Remedies
Calcarea carbonica – For slow, chubby, sluggish babies who sweat on the head, have delayed walking or teething, and crave eggs or indigestible things.
- Baryta carbonica – For mentally and physically delayed children, shy, slow learners, late talkers and walkers.
- Silicea – For delicate, weak children, poor assimilation, and weak immune system.
- Thyroidinum – Prepared from the thyroid gland; helps regulate metabolism and stimulate underactive thyroid function.
- Tuberculinum – For children who are weak, prone to infections, and have poor growth despite good appetite.
(The choice of remedy depends on totality of symptoms and constitution, not just diagnosis.)
Lifestyle & Parental
Regular thyroid testing as advised by doctor.
- Mother should eat iodine-rich food during pregnancy and lactation.
- Give baby proper nutrition and warmth.
- Stimulate the child with talking, playing, and interaction — helps brain development.
- Early detection and continuous follow-up are key for full recovery.
Summary
“Congenital Hypothyroidism means the baby’s thyroid gland is lazy or missing from birth.
Homeopathy helps by awakening this natural power of the gland, improving growth, activity, and brain development when started early — along with proper medical care.”
