Getting to Know Children's Heart Health: Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out for

Children's heart health is an important aspect that parents need to pay attention to. The heart is a vital organ that plays a role in pumping blood throughout the body, including other important organs. Therefore, it is important for us to recognize the signs and symptoms to watch out for regarding children's heart health.

One of the signs to watch out for is complaints of shortness of breath. Children who often complain of difficulty breathing or often experience shortness of breath may have heart problems. This can be caused by abnormalities in the heart structure or problems with heart function. Apart from that, children who often experience unreasonable fatigue or get tired easily during activities also need attention. Excessive fatigue can be an indication of a child's heart problem.

Chest pain is a symptom that often occurs in adults who have heart problems, but it is not uncommon for children to experience this symptom. If your child complains of persistent chest pain or chest pain that occurs during activity, they need to be seen by a doctor immediately. Chest pain in children can be a sign of heart problems that need to be treated immediately.

Cyanosis or a bluish change in skin color is also a sign to watch out for. Cyanosis occurs when body tissues do not get enough oxygen carried by the blood. This can occur in children with heart problems, where the heart is unable to pump blood properly throughout the body. Cyanosis can be seen on the child's lips, tongue and nails.

Apart from that, unnatural weight loss can also be a symptom of a child's heart problem. Children who have difficulty eating or have no appetite may experience significant weight loss. This can happen because the child's heart is unable to pump blood properly to the digestive tract, making it difficult for the child to digest food properly.

It is important for parents to recognize the signs and symptoms to watch out for regarding their child's heart health. If your child experiences one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, immediately consult a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Don't delay the examination, because heart problems in children can have serious consequences if not treated immediately.

To prevent heart problems in children, it is important for parents to provide a healthy and balanced diet, and encourage children to be active and exercise regularly. Also avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and polluted environments, because it can affect a child's heart health.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs and symptoms to watch out for regarding children's heart health is an important step in maintaining their health. If your child experiences complaints of shortness of breath, unreasonable fatigue, chest pain, cyanosis, or significant weight loss, immediately consult a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Maintain your child's heart health by providing a healthy diet, adequate physical activity, and avoiding exposure to risk factors that can affect heart health.

 

 

 

Reference :
idai.Mengenal kelainan jantung anak(2014)
www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/heartdefects/screening.html
www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/PEHDIC/Pages/Newborn-Screening-for-CCHD.aspx