Pediatric Heart Disease: Early Detection, Causes, and Treatment Options at Vibhavadi Hospital

Pediatric heart disease refers to a wide spectrum of heart conditions affecting children, ranging from birth through adolescence. These conditions can either be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (develop after birth). With early diagnosis and comprehensive medical care, children with heart disease can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. At Vibhavadi Hospital, our pediatric cardiologists use advanced diagnostic tools and treatment methods to deliver personalized care to every child.

Types of Pediatric Heart Disease

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)

Congenital heart disease involves structural defects in the heart or its major blood vessels that occur during fetal development. These defects are among the most common birth anomalies, affecting approximately 1 in 100 live births. Examples include:

• Atrial septal defect (ASD)

• Ventricular septal defect (VSD)

• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)

• Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

• Transposition of the great arteries (TGA)

Some CHDs may be mild and resolve naturally, while others require surgery or catheter-based interventions shortly after birth.

Acquired Heart Disease

Acquired heart disease develops after birth, often due to infections, immune system disorders, or other conditions. Common types include:

• Kawasaki disease: an inflammatory disease affecting blood vessels

• Rheumatic heart disease: resulting from untreated streptococcal infections

• Myocarditis: inflammation of the heart muscle due to viral infections

• Cardiomyopathy: disease of the heart muscle affecting its ability to pump blood effectively

Common Symptoms of Heart Disease in Children

Early signs of pediatric heart disease can be subtle and may vary by age and type of condition. Parents and caregivers should watch for symptoms such as:

• Difficulty breathing, especially during feeding or physical activity

• Poor weight gain or failure to thrive

• Excessive sweating, particularly during feeding

• Cyanosis (bluish lips, tongue, or fingertips)

• Fatigue or lethargy

• Heart murmurs

• Swollen legs, abdomen, or around the eyes

• Chest pain (more common in older children)

Diagnostic Process at Vibhavadi Hospital

At Vibhavadi Hospital, we use a range of advanced diagnostic tools to detect heart conditions in children:

• Physical examination to identify heart murmurs or abnormal breathing

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure electrical activity of the heart

• Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) for visualizing heart structure and function

• Chest X-ray to check the size and shape of the heart

• Cardiac MRI or CT scan for more detailed anatomical analysis

• Pulse oximetry to check oxygen levels in the blood

• Cardiac catheterization for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in complex cases

Treatment Options for Pediatric Heart Disease

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the heart condition. Some children may need only regular monitoring, while others require medications, interventions, or surgery.

Medications

Common medications include:

• Diuretics to reduce fluid overload

• Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors to regulate heart function

• Anti-inflammatory drugs for myocarditis or Kawasaki disease

• Anticoagulants in specific conditions to prevent clot formation

Catheter-Based Interventions

Minimally invasive procedures, such as device closure of ASDs or PDAs, can correct certain defects without the need for open-heart surgery.

Cardiac Surgery

Open-heart surgery may be necessary for complex congenital defects or when catheter-based approaches are not suitable. Our surgical team works closely with pediatric cardiologists to ensure the safest outcomes.

Long-Term Monitoring and Rehabilitation

Children with heart disease require ongoing follow-up to monitor heart function and ensure proper development. Vibhavadi Hospital offers pediatric cardiac rehabilitation, nutritional support, and family counseling services.

Lifestyle and Preventive Care

Parents can support their child’s heart health through:

• Regular medical checkups

• A balanced diet low in salt and trans fats

• Encouraging physical activity within safe limits

• Prompt treatment of infections

• Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke

• Maintaining a healthy weight

For children with known heart disease, prophylactic antibiotics may be recommended before dental or surgical procedures to prevent infective endocarditis.

Pediatric Cardiology at Vibhavadi Hospital

Our Pediatric Cardiology Clinic offers:

• Early screening for congenital heart defects

• Multidisciplinary management for complex heart disease

• Pre- and post-surgical care

• Family education and genetic counseling

• Pediatric cardiac rehabilitation

The hospital is equipped with a state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Lab and diagnostic imaging technologies that ensure accurate assessment and safe treatment for children of all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most common heart disease in children?
Atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) are among the most common congenital heart defects in children.

Can a child outgrow heart disease?
Some mild congenital heart defects may resolve on their own. However, many conditions require lifelong monitoring or intervention.

Is surgery safe for young children?
Yes. Pediatric cardiac surgery is performed by specialized surgeons and has a high success rate, especially when done in experienced centers like Vibhavadi Hospital.

Can children with heart disease lead a normal life?
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many children can live active and healthy lives.

Does pediatric heart disease run in families?
Yes, genetics can play a role. Families with a history of congenital heart defects should consider genetic counseling.

Related Services at Vibhavadi Hospital

• Pediatric Cardiology Clinic

• Cardiac Catheterization Lab

• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)

• Cardiac Diagnostic Imaging (Echocardiogram, ECG, MRI, CT)

• Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Team

• Family Support and Counseling

To schedule an appointment with our pediatric cardiologist or learn more about your child’s heart health, please visit the Vibhavadi Hospital Pediatric Center or contact our call center.