3 Signs Of Heart Problems In Kids Every Parent Should Know About

ljubaphoto via Getty Images Heart issues in kids can be more subtle and present differently than adults. “It’s normal for heart rates to change based on what we’re doing, such as sleeping versus running, but sometimes heartbeats can be abnormally fast when they don’t need to be.” Be mindful of chest “pain” that could be actual pain or palpitations, along with other symptoms like exercise intolerance, not being able to keep up with their friends, and being tired all the time. In these cases, it’s always best to get the child set up with a cardiologist to help prevent early coronary heart disease.” If you’ve had a family member have a heart attack at an early age, require a pacemaker, or any other cardiac issues, O’Brien said it’s best to mention that to your pediatrician so they are aware and can assess accordingly. But there is a third group ― preventative, said Dr. Carissa Baker-Smith, director of the pediatric preventive cardiology program at Nemours Children’s Health in Wilmington, Delaware, and an American Heart Association volunteer expert. Here are a few ways Baker-Smith said you can protect your child’s heart health and spot warning signs early on: