A visit to a pediatric cardiologist can reveal potential heart problems that could affect children’s health and performance, especially in the case of young athletes. Intense physical activity places increased demands on the cardiovascular system. It is therefore important to check whether the child has any hidden heart problems that could be aggravated by playing sports.
The importance of prevention in children
Prevention is a key factor in keeping children healthy. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of heart problems can prevent serious complications in the future. A pediatric cardiologist can detect problems such as congenital heart defects, arrhythmias or cardiomyopathies that may not be immediately obvious.
Risks of inadequate prevention
Late detection of heart defects can lead to sudden heart failure during physical activity. Stories of young athletes collapsing during training or matches are often the result of under-diagnosis of cardiovascular problems. The first symptoms often appear only during sporting activity, when a higher physical load is put on the heart.
Contents of the basic cardiology examination package:
- Family history and child’s medical history: the doctor asks about the child’s family history of heart disease and symptoms.
- Physical examination and blood tests: this includes checking your heart rate, blood pressure and general heart condition using a stethoscope. Blood tests monitor parameters essential for the proper functioning of the heart.
- ECG (electrocardiogram): this test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias or other abnormalities.
- Echocardiography: an ultrasound scan that provides a detailed picture of the heart structures and their functionality.24-hour ECG Holter: provides the cardiologist with detailed information about the heart rate and possible arrhythmias.
Content of the extended cardiology PLUS package:
Basic package + extra:
- Bicycle ergometry: in the case of athletes, it may be necessary to assess the activity of the heart during physical exertion. During the test, the child pedals a stationary bike while the doctor monitors his ECG, blood pressure and pulse.
- 24-hour pressure holter (in case of elevated pressure values during ergometry)
Why have the child examined:
- Early detection of problems: early diagnosis allows rapid intervention, which can prevent more serious complications.
- Safety in sport: children who are active in sport can continue training knowing that their heart is healthy.
- A sense of security for parents: parents get the reassurance that their child is in the hands of an expert and is not at risk of health risks during training.
- Optimization of sports performance: A healthy heart allows for better performance and faster recovery after physical exertion.
Make an appointment to see a specialist
Who cares about your children’s healthy heart?
In our pediatric cardiology outpatient clinic you will meet MUDr. Marek Bjelošević, PhD.
She has over 10 years of experience focusing on cardiac arrhythmias in children.
**More about MUDr. Bjelošević, PhD. you can find out in this article.**
