What is a sign of congenital hypothyroidism in infants?

Prolonged jaundice is indeed a significant sign of congenital hypothyroidism in infants. This condition, marked by an underactive thyroid gland, can disrupt the metabolism and lead to various physiological issues. In newborns, the presence of prolonged jaundice—defined as jaundice persisting beyond the typical first week of life—can indicate underlying metabolic disorders, including congenital hypothyroidism.

In this context, jaundice occurs due to the liver's inability to process bilirubin efficiently, which may be attributed to low levels of thyroid hormones that affect liver function and metabolism. Early identification and treatment are crucial, as untreated congenital hypothyroidism may lead to cognitive impairments and developmental delays.

While excessive sleeping, low birth weight, and frequent vomiting can be seen in a variety of conditions affecting infants, they are not specific indicators of congenital hypothyroidism like prolonged jaundice is. Excessive sleeping can be a sign of many issues, including normal variations in newborn behavior. Low birth weight can result from a range of factors, including maternal health and environmental influences, and frequent vomiting is common in many infants and does not specifically point to thyroid problems. Thus, the particular association between prolonged jaundice and congenital hypothyroidism underscores the importance of monitoring liver function and metabolic