Paediatric cardiology

The paediatric cardiology clinic diagnoses and treats congenital heart malformations (valve insufficiency, narrowing of the main arteries, atrial and ventricular septal defect) and acquired cardiovascular diseases (arrhythmias, myocardial and inflammatory diseases). When it comes to small children, starting treatment as soon as possible is especially important to prevent more serious health problems.

At our paediatric cardiology clinic, we treat young patients from neonatal age to 18 years in case of heart complaints or suspected heart disease.

If your child experiences the following symptoms, we recommend that you see a paediatric cardiologist as soon as possible:

• Rapid breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Cyanosis (bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin)
• Dizziness, headache, nausea
• Fainting
• Heart rate too slow or too fast
• Non-rhythmic heartbeat
• Oedema of the face, torso and legs
• Unusual degree of fatigue
• Loss of appetite with decreased body weight

After learning the detailed family and individual medical history, the following examinations will be performed, none of which are painful, and can be performed most effectively on a calm, cooperating child. Therefore, it can help a lot if children, especially the younger ones, come to the test relaxed (e.g. after sleep), with a full stomach and their favourite toy.

Physical analysis

It is similar to a general paediatric examination, with particular emphasis on listening above the heart and palpating the pulses.

Saturation measurement

Blood oxygen saturation is measured with a fingertip device (pulse oximeter).

Blood pressure measurement and resting ECG

Blood pressure measurement and ECG are performed similarly to the examination of adults, but with devices sized for children.

Ultrasound examination

Cardiac ultrasound is an imaging procedure in which the anatomy and functioning of the heart are examined painlessly and without damaging the body. The examination is usually performed in a supine position, but young children can also be examined by sitting on the parent’s lap. The calmness and cooperation of the child is especially important when it comes to this examination, therefore, we try to divert the attention of children with toys if necessary.

Today, it is also possible for children to have a 24-hour blood pressure measurement and a 24-hour ECG in their home, continuing their normal lifestyle.