Autism & Thyroid

“My 3-year-old daughter is being evaluated for Autism. If she is diagnosed with Autism she will be on the mild end. However, I am 9 months pregnant with my second child and not only fearful for him, but of course guilt ridden for my daughter wondering if I caused this, and should I have been on the lookout for it sooner. While doing some research, a horrible realization and possibility came to my mind. After her birth, I was diagnosed with congenital Hypothyroidism. Despite normal TSH levels during my pregnancy, I now know that I had a completely nonfunctioning T3 level. For me, this meant severe morbid obesity, major depression and bipolar symptoms with intrusive thought. Once treated, my condition has vastly improved. And of course, I have continued T3 medication throughout my pregnancy. My question is that I know Hypothyroidism can cause fetal brain development issues and I am curious if with your vast knowledge, do you think or know of any link between Hypothyroidism and Autism? Additionally, would I be wise to inquire of my daughter’s pediatrician to monitor her T3. I don’t know if she were diagnosed with Hypothyroidism as well that T3 would alleviate Autistic symptoms.”

My brother, Dr Bob, is specializing in treating children with autism. He addresses the many metabolic “quirks” that these children can have. He has had good success in improving these kid’s symptoms. While there are still many unknowns in regards to autism, there seems to be an autoimmune component. This is when the body’s own immune systems does not function properly and attacks the wrong cells in the body. When a person has an autoimmune problem, the thyroid gland can get attacked, causing an abnormal thyroid level. A child with suspected autism should get his thyroid hormone levels checked, in addition to many other metabolic studies. A doctor that is familiar with treating autism and metabolic issues can help with this. Here is a link to a page of advice on finding a quality practitoner: https://www.autism.com/treating_finding

Dr. Jim

September 3, 2013 May 5, 2017 Dr. Bill Sears

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