Paediatric Cardiology

A:  Not necessarily. Some heart murmurs are functional or innocent murmurs and may not indicate a structural heart problem. However, if a doctor detects a murmur, or if the child also has shortness of breath, bluish lips, easy fatigue or poor weight gain, assessment by a paediatric cardiologist should be arranged.

A: There are many causes of chest pain in children, and it is not always related to heart disease. It may also be related to muscles, the respiratory system, acid reflux or stress. However, if chest pain occurs during exercise, or is accompanied by palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, bluish lips or a family history of heart disease, a heart assessment should be arranged as soon as possible.

A: Arrhythmia may cause a child to feel that their heartbeat is too fast, too slow or irregular. It may also cause palpitations, chest discomfort, dizziness, easy fatigue or shortness of breath. In severe cases, fainting may occur. If these symptoms occur repeatedly, a cardiology assessment should be arranged.

A: Yes. Children and adolescents may also have high blood pressure. Causes may include obesity, kidney problems, endocrine disorders, family history or other health factors. If high blood pressure is found during a health check, further medical assessment and follow-up are recommended.

A: An echocardiogram is a non-invasive examination and usually does not cause pain. It helps the doctor observe the heart structure, valve movement and pumping function. It is commonly used to assess heart murmurs, congenital heart disease and heart function problems.

A: Whether a child can exercise depends on the type of heart disease, disease severity, heart function and the doctor’s assessment. Some children can take part in daily activities or suitable exercise, while others may need to avoid strenuous exercise. Parents should consult a paediatric cardiologist for safe activity advice.

A: Some heart conditions require regular monitoring, such as congenital heart disease, valve diseases, arrhythmias, high blood pressure and heart failure. The doctor will arrange an appropriate follow-up and investigation plan according to the child’s condition, growth stage and treatment needs.