Frequently Asked Questions
Continental Hospitals' Department of Pediatric Cardiology is renowned for its exceptional care and treatment of cardiac conditions in children. Our dedicated team of cardiac consultants, pediatric intensivists, and pediatric cardiac surgeons makes us the best pediatric heart care in Hyderabad.
Children can have various heart conditions, including congenital heart defects (present at birth), acquired heart diseases, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and more.
Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities in the heart that are present at birth. These can range from mild conditions that may not require treatment to severe, life-threatening defects.
CHDs are often diagnosed through prenatal ultrasounds, newborn screenings, physical exams, and various imaging tests like echocardiography and cardiac catheterization.
Symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition but may include difficulty breathing, poor growth, fatigue, bluish skin or lips (cyanosis), chest pain, and palpitations.
Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the condition and may include medication, catheter-based procedures, open-heart surgery, or heart transplantation.
The frequency of follow-up visits depends on the child's condition and treatment plan, but regular check-ups are essential to monitor their heart health.
Many children with heart conditions can lead fulfilling lives with appropriate medical care and lifestyle modifications. The prognosis varies depending on the specific condition.
A pediatric cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart problems in children. Consult one if you suspect your child has a heart issue or if they have a known heart condition.
Some congenital heart defects cannot be prevented, but prenatal care and avoiding certain medications or substances during pregnancy can reduce the risk. Lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can also promote heart health.
Fetal echocardiography is a specialized ultrasound that examines the developing fetus's heart. It is typically performed when there is a family history of heart defects or other risk factors.