Pediatric Cardiologist

A pediatric cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in children, such as congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathies, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, and other heart health issues that may occur during childhood.

What does a pediatric cardiologist do?

A pediatric cardiologist diagnoses and treats cardiovascular diseases in children, which can affect them from an early age. The pediatric cardiologist assesses the child’s health using diagnostic tools such as electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, pulse oximetry, functional tests, and blood analyses. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits are often necessary. Treatment usually begins with individualized lifestyle recommendations and may include medications or, if needed, surgical or minimally invasive procedures. Pediatric cardiologists frequently collaborate with other specialists, such as pulmonologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and others, to provide comprehensive care and continuous health monitoring for the child.

What to expect during a cardiologist visit?

Before the cardiologist visit, the child’s height and weight are measured, pulse oximetry is performed, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is taken, and blood pressure is measured. These assessments are conducted on-site at the clinic prior to the consultation to ensure a complete and thorough evaluation.

At the beginning of the visit, the cardiologist listens to the child’s health complaints, collects medical history, and discusses the child’s lifestyle. The doctor also reviews the results of previous tests and examinations. This allows the cardiologist to gain a complete understanding of the child’s overall health and identify possible causes of cardiovascular system disorders.

During the visit, the doctor performs a thorough assessment of the child’s cardiovascular system, including an echocardiography examination to obtain detailed information about the child’s heart function and structure. After confirming the diagnosis, the cardiologist develops a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication therapy, various medical procedures, or surgical treatment, depending on the type of condition, the child’s age, and overall health status.

The duration of the visit is approximately 60 minutes.

When should a child see a cardiologist?

• Rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or prolonged fatigue, especially during physical activity;
• Heart rhythm disturbances – if the child experiences fast, irregular, or strong heartbeats;
• Fainting or dizziness, particularly during physical exertion;
• Family history of congenital heart disease;
• Heart murmurs – if a doctor has detected a murmur over the heart, which may indicate heart defects or other abnormalities;
• Sudden chest pain – if the child complains of chest pain, especially during exercise;
• Chronic illnesses or viral infections that may affect the heart – after viral infections, especially those accompanied by fever or heart inflammation, a cardiology evaluation may be necessary;
• Infants who fail to gain weight, have feeding difficulties, tire while eating, or cannot finish a full feeding.

A visit to a pediatric cardiologist is especially important if there are any signs of heart problems or concerns about the child’s heart health, in order to prevent or treat potential issues in a timely manner.