Child Heart Disease
Child heart disease is more widespread than most people realise, heart disease being more commonly associated with the older adult population. For example, there are dozens of different types of congenital heart disease. They affect nearly one percent of all newborns. The most common defect is a hole in the wall of the heart (septum), either the top two chambers (atrial septal defect) or the lower chambers (ventricular septal defect). This accounts for around twenty to thirty percent of all birth defects. It is possible for small ventricular septal defect to be rectified by itself as the child grows. Diagnosis of Child Heart Disease Many child heart diseases are diagnosed by the detection of a heart murmur during routine pediatric examination. Septal defects allow blood to flow between the chamber with fresh oxygenated blood and the chamber with already circulated blood. This may show up as a heart murmur or the baby may have blue lips or fingers. There are also other problems, which may cause these symptoms. The great arteries may be connected wrongly or the heart valves may be deformed. Such defects will require surgery when the child is older. What is a Heart Murmur? A heart murmur is the sound made as blood flows through the heart. When a heart murmur indicates a real heart problem, it is either a septal defect or a faulty valve. Some heart murmurs are harmless. On detection of a heart murmur, it is necessary to confirm the diagnosis with a pediatrician cardiologist who specialises in child heart disease. Prevention of Child Heart Disease The common child heart disease, congenital heart disease, can be prevented by simple precautions during pregnancy. Travelling by flying in the first three months and flying long distance is not advisable as it the mother is subjected to thinner air even if the aircraft cabin is pressurised. An expectant woman should also avoid food chemical and even medication unless really necessary. Most medication and food packaging carry information on their effect on pregnant woman. However, there are no hundred percent guarantees on safety of usage for a pregnant woman.
|
