A child’s giggle and their endless energy are the sounds and sights that warm parents’ hearts and make them happy. Yet underneath all that playful surface lies a complex system and the heart. It is the only unsleeping, tireless organ in our body that deserves special attention. Congenital heart defects are rare, occurring in approximately one in every hundred newborns. But even though such diseases are not prevalent, they are complex and definitely worth talking about.

What Are Paediatric Heart Conditions in Paediatric Cardiology?

In Paediatric Cardiology, paediatric heart conditions can be divided into congenital heart defects (CHDs) and acquired heart diseases. Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities present at birth, whereas acquired heart diseases develop after birth due to various factors, including infections or other medical diseases.

Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs)

Septal Defects: Holes in the walls (septum) between heart chambers, such as atrial septal defects (ASDs) and ventricular septal defects (VSDs). 

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): A persistent opening between the aorta and pulmonary artery. 

Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA): The aorta and pulmonary artery are transposed.

Acquired Heart Conditions

1. Rheumatic Heart Disease: Damaged heart valves as a result of rheumatic fever, which is associated with strep throat. 
2. Kawasaki Disease: Causes inflammation in the blood vessels around your body, including coronary arteries as well as other large veins. 
3. Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle, often caused by viral infection.

Early Signs of Heart Issues in Kids

Detecting heart issues in children can be challenging because symptoms can be subtle or resemble other common childhood conditions. However, certain signs should raise a red flag for parents and Paediatric Cardiology doctors:

1. Cyanosis

Cyanosis is a bluish tint to the skin, lips, and nail beds, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood. This condition is often a sign of a congenital heart defect. In newborns, persistent cyanosis, especially when feeding or crying, warrants immediate medical evaluation.

2. Poor Feeding and Growth

Infants with heart conditions may have difficulty feeding due to fatigue and breathlessness. They may tire quickly while nursing or drinking from a bottle, leading to inadequate nutrition and poor weight gain, known as failure to thrive.

3. Rapid Breathing or Shortness of Breath

Fast or laboured breathing, especially during feeding or physical activity, can be an indicator of heart problems. Parents may notice their child breathing rapidly even at rest or having difficulty catching their breath.

4. Excessive Sweating

While it’s normal for children to sweat during physical activity, excessive sweating, particularly during feeding or mild exertion, can be a sign of heart failure or other heart conditions.

5. Fatigue and Poor Exercise Tolerance

Children with heart issues may experience unusual fatigue and have a limited tolerance for physical activity. They may tire quickly during playtime or struggle to keep up with peers.

6. Heart Murmurs

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat, often detected during a routine physical examination. While many heart murmurs are harmless, some can indicate underlying heart problems.

7. Chest Pain

Chest pain in children, although less common, should not be ignored. If a child complains of chest pain, especially if it occurs during physical activity, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

8. Swelling

Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen can indicate heart failure. This condition, known as edema, results from fluid retention due to the heart’s inability to pump effectively.

9. Palpitations or Irregular Heartbeats

Older children may describe sensations of a racing heart or irregular heartbeats, known as palpitations. These symptoms can be caused by various heart rhythm disorders.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While the signs mentioned above can be concerning, they do not always indicate a heart condition. However, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if these symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other worrisome signs. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with heart issues.

Diagnostic Tools in Paediatric Cardiology

When a heart condition is suspected, paediatric cardiologists use a variety of diagnostic tools to evaluate the heart’s structure and function:

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and blood flow.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias or other abnormalities.
• Chest X-ray: Helps visualise the heart’s size and shape and detect fluid in the lungs.
• Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart’s anatomy and function.
• Cardiac Catheterization: Involves threading a catheter through blood vessels to the heart to diagnose and sometimes treat heart conditions.

Treatment Options

The treatment for paediatric heart conditions varies depending on the type and severity of the issue. Some common treatment options include:

• Medications: To manage symptoms, control heart rate, or reduce fluid buildup.
• Interventional Procedures: Such as balloon angioplasty or device closure of septal defects performed during cardiac catheterization.
• Surgery: To correct structural defects, such as repairing or replacing heart valves or correcting congenital defects.
• Lifestyle Changes: Including dietary modifications and exercise restrictions for certain conditions.

The Importance of Regular Check-Ups

Regular paediatric check-ups are vital for monitoring your child’s overall health and detecting any early signs of heart issues. During these visits, Paediatric Cardiology physicians can perform physical examinations, listen for heart murmurs, and assess growth and development.

Final Words

Understanding the early signs of heart issues in children is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. While some symptoms may be subtle, paying attention to changes in your child’s feeding, breathing, activity level, and physical appearance can provide important clues. If you suspect a heart problem, seek medical advice promptly. With advancements in paediatric cardiology, many heart conditions can be effectively managed, allowing children to lead healthy and active lives. Remember, early detection is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes for your child’s heart health.

If you notice any signs of heart issues in your child, then consult an expert paediatric cardiologist at a tertiary-care hospital today!