Pediatric Cardiology
Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions in newborns, infants and children.
About Pediatric Cardiology
Pediatric cardiology focuses on diagnosing and managing congenital and acquired heart conditions in children. Care includes medical, interventional and surgical approaches tailored to the child’s age and condition.
Symptoms
Common signs include rapid breathing, bluish skin (cyanosis), poor feeding, failure to thrive, chest pain, palpitations or fainting. Some defects are asymptomatic and found on routine checkups.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses clinical examination, ECG, chest X-ray, echocardiography (transthoracic/fetal), and, when needed, CT or MRI and cardiac catheterisation to define the anatomy and physiology.
Treatment Options
Treatment ranges from medical therapy to catheter-based interventions and surgery. Options include device closures, balloon dilations, valve repairs, and advanced neonatal care strategies.
Benefits
Early diagnosis and appropriate intervention improve growth, exercise capacity and long-term heart function. Minimally invasive procedures reduce hospital stay and recovery time.
When to Contact a Doctor
Contact immediately for difficulty breathing, persistent cyanosis, poor feeding, low urine output, sudden collapse, or if you suspect a heart murmur in your child.
FAQ
How is pediatric cardiology different from adult cardiology?
Pediatric cardiology focuses on congenital abnormalities and developmental aspects of the child’s heart; treatment approaches are tailored to growth and development.
Is echocardiography safe for children?
Yes — it is a safe ultrasound-based test without radiation.