Posted by Heart disease, also known as CVD (cardiovascular disease), is often seen in older individuals. You do not typically observe this type of disease with kids. However, children can suffer from this condition as well, and it has led to some unique challenges for families and caregivers.
It is important to have an understanding of how cardiovascular disease affects children and how to best help them for their overall health. As we go further into this article, we’ll delve into the various forms of this condition in children. This includes what causes them, the common symptoms, methods for diagnosis, and available treatment plans.
Types of Heart Disease in Children
There are different types of CVD in children. These can significantly impact their lives; this is why parents/caregivers are working hard with the help of medical professionals to provide the best care possible for kids.
Here are the two types of heart cognition that is commonly observed in children.
Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital cardiovascular disease is the most common type of CVD that affects children. In every 100 births, there is one child that is affected by this disease. This congenital defect can significantly impact the heart’s structure and function. Leading to many issues along the way if left untreated.
Acquired Heart Disease
An acquired cardiovascular disease occurs after the birth of the child. Different from congenital CVD, acquired CVD is not present at birth. Moreover, it can be triggered by infections like rheumatic fever and other factors that harm the heart muscle or valves.
Causes of Heart Disease in Children
CVD doesn’t just happen. This disease, including its types, happens for a reason. Each one is associated with specific factors that affect the body.
Let’s discuss the three factors that are linked with CVD in children.
Genetic Factors
It is possible for some children to be born with genetic abnormalities. These genetic factors impact the development of their heart, resulting in CVD.
Also, genetic factors can be due to incompatible genes of the parents, or the family medical history. For example, CVD is a condition seen in the lineage of person A’s father.
Maternal Health
The next factor is the maternal health of the mother. Certain maternal health issues like diabetes or infections while pregnant may occur. This can raise the chances of the child developing CVD.
Furthermore, if the mother is not leading a healthy lifestyle, especially during her pregnancy, it can significantly impact the development of the child, and the child’s heart.
Environmental Factors
Last is the exposure to environmental factors. factors like tobacco smoke or specific chemicals can contribute to the development of CVD in children.
As just previously stated, if a mother is not leading a healthy lifestyle during her pregnancy, it will significantly impact the development of the unborn baby.
Chemicals from cigarette smoke, alcohol, coffee and other elements can cause babies to develop CVD while still in the womb.
Symptoms of Heart Disease in Children
Different symptoms that may reveal root causes can be seen in children with heart problems. Among these symptoms are respiratory difficulties, such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or wheezing. When compared to kids who do not have CVD, they tire out more quickly from physical activities.
In addition, poor growth is also a symptom of cardiovascular disease commonly seen in children who suffer from the disease. This is because some of them have difficulty gaining weight or developing normally.
Cyanosis is another condition that can occur. This indicates low oxygen levels in the blood, and is characterized by bluish skin, lips, or nails.
So to effectively manage cardiac disease in children, it’s critical to recognize these symptoms as soon as possible and seek immediate medical treatment.
Diagnosis of Heart Disease in Children
Diagnosing CVD in kids is a complex process. It typically requires several steps. This is to make sure that the structure and function of the heart is being evaluated precisely.
The first step is the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination. He or she will carefully listen to the child’s heart and lungs for any irregularities. After this initial assessment, a variety of diagnostic tests may be utilized. Like the use of an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the heart’s electrical activity.
An echocardiogram is also used to generate a detailed image of the heart’s structure and function using sound waves. And last but not least, a chest X-ray to offer additional information about the heart’s condition.
Furthermore, when faced with more complicated situations, doctors may need to perform a cardiac catheterization to gather more details about the heart’s overall health condition.
Treatment Options for Children with Heart Disease
There are different ways to treat children with heart disease, such as giving them medicine to help their hearts work better or to control symptoms.
In more severe cases, doctors may need to perform surgery. This is to improve heart function or address any defects that might be life threatening already.
Furthermore, It’s important for kids with CVD to have a healthy lifestyle, which includes exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods. By following these recommendations, parents can reduce the impact of this disease on their children’s health and help them lead healthier lives.
Supporting Children with Heart Disease
Helping children with cardiovascular conditions is not easy. This requires various important elements. To begin with, it’s important that we offer emotional support as these kids may be afraid, going through different emotions or concerned for their wellbeing. Providing them with reassurance and empathy can help them cope.
Furthermore, education is very important for young children and their caregivers. Understanding the illness and how to treat it may help them make wise decisions and manage the condition successfully.
Lastly, it is a must to guarantee that the child continues to get medical care. Scheduling follow-up consultations with a pediatric cardiologist is crucial for monitoring the child’s heart health and implementing any necessary treatment modifications.
Key Takeaway
Raising a child with heart disease may have its challenges, but with proper care and support, many can lead happy, active lives.
Aside from medical attention, children with CVD need emotional support and empathy from medical professionals as hospital treatment can be an unsettling encounter for them.
Furthermore, understanding the different types of cardiovascular diseases, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments is crucial for providing the best possible care.
By leading a heart-healthy lifestyle and working closely with healthcare professionals, children with heart conditions can have long and fulfilling lives.