Protect Your Child’s Heart Health
As children grow, parents naturally have concerns about their health, especially when it comes to hidden issues that may not be as visible as a broken bone. Understanding the subtleties of symptoms related to heart conditions can be challenging, as they may overlap with various health issues beneath the surface.
Recognize the potential signs of heart conditions and learn how to support your child’s cardiovascular health.
What to Look Out For
Children experiencing heart issues may exhibit a range of symptoms, some overt and others more nuanced.
"Chest pain associated with any type of physical activity is a cause for concern," says Patrick Flynn, M.D., associate professor of clinical pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine and interim co-chief of the Division of Pediatric Cardiology.
Other symptoms of heart problems in children include:
- Breathing difficulties
- Dizzy spells
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Palpitations
Screening for Cardiac Issues
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 1 in 77 children have some type of heart condition. Because heart problems aren’t always obvious, checkups with a pediatrician should become a regular part of your routine.
As children grow, become more active and take an interest in sports, parents should consult with their children’s pediatrician to determine the best path.
If your child plays sports, a pre-participation physical provides a valuable opportunity for their healthcare provider to identify heart conditions that could limit their ability to play. Your child’s pediatrician can effectively screen patients that may be at high risk, and they can be sent to a pediatric cardiologist for further evaluation, if necessary.
The Power of Nutrition
For children with heart conditions or heart disease risk factors, such as being overweight, a heart-healthy diet plays a vital role in managing overall health and preventing complications.
“We want kids to have a balanced diet and stay away from excessive sweeteners and fat,” Dr. Flynn says. “Many kids will grow up and go through adolescence devoid of a diet that contains fruits and vegetables.”
Nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, support proper growth, enhance cardiovascular function and contribute to a better quality of life for children with heart-related concerns.
Regular Exercise
Maintaining an active lifestyle helps all children keep their hearts healthy and strong.
Exercise is recommended for children with and without heart conditions. For most kids who have heart disease, the exercise they get depends on how much they can do and what type of activities they can participate in.
Generally, pediatric cardiologists recommend 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as walking, running or biking. Exercise helps children manage weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related heart issues. For children with heart conditions, tailored exercise recommendations can enhance their cardiovascular fitness, improve endurance and support overall wellbeing.
Looking to the Future
If parents have concerns about their child's symptoms, they should consult their pediatrician, who can distinguish between normal and concerning signs and initiate necessary diagnostic tests.
If there are any heart-health concerns at all, speak to your child’s pediatrician and have them refer your child to a pediatric cardiologist.
Looking for a pediatrician who can help your child establish heart-healthy lifestyle habits? Find a pediatrician at Weill Cornell Medicine.