Pediatric Cardiology Clinic

The Pediatric Cardiology Clinic at Bangkok Hospital specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions in children. Our team of skilled pediatric cardiologists provides personalized care using advanced diagnostic tools and treatment methods. Whether it's congenital heart defects, arrhythmias, or other cardiovascular concerns, we ensure that young patients receive the highest quality care in a compassionate environment. We offer comprehensive services, including heart screenings, follow-ups, and preventive care. Trust Bangkok Hospital’s Pediatric Cardiology Clinic to deliver expert care for your child’s heart health.

Causes of Pediatric Heart Disease: Key Points

• Congenital Heart Defects in Children:

  • • • Develop during the first six weeks of pregnancy when the fetal heart and blood vessels are forming.

      • Causes include genetic factors, medical conditions, medications, and environmental influences like smoking.

      • Affect up to 8 per 1,000 live births, with defects such as abnormal blood vessels, septal defects (holes in the heart), and heart valve issues.

      • Serious defects are often diagnosed at birth, while milder conditions, such as small septal holes or mild valve stenosis, may not require treatment.

• Acquired Heart Diseases in Children:

  • • Rheumatic Heart Disease:

      • Caused by rheumatic fever after untreated strep throat infections.

      • Leads to permanent heart valve damage due to an immune response.

• Kawasaki Disease:

  • • • A major cause of acquired heart disease, causing artery inflammation and coronary artery aneurysms.

• Viral Myocarditis:

  • • • Viral infections lead to inflammation of the heart muscles and disrupt electrical signals, potentially causing sudden cardiac arrest.

• Heart Rhythm Problems (Arrhythmias):

  • • • Abnormal heartbeats, such as tachycardia (fast heart rate), can cause palpitations, dizziness, and chest pain.

      • Severe cases may result in sudden cardiac death.

Accurate diagnosis and timely medical care are essential to manage pediatric heart diseases effectively and ensure long-term health.

Signs and Symptoms of Congenital Heart Disease

• In Newborns:

  • • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during feedings, often impacting growth and development.

    • Cyanosis: Pale gray, purple, or blue skin and fingernails caused by insufficient oxygen levels.

    • Rapid Breathing: Frequent and unusually fast breathing patterns.

• In Later Years (20s-30s):

  • • Exercise Intolerance: Shortness of breath during physical activity.

    • Fatigue and Fainting: Easily tiring or experiencing dizziness and fainting during exercise, potentially indicating underlying heart issues.

Early detection and medical attention are crucial for effective treatment and improved quality of life.

Treatment of Congenital Heart Disease

1. Self-Correction in Minor Cases:

   • Certain congenital heart defects, such as small holes, may heal naturally as the child grows and might not require intervention.

2. Catheterization Procedures:

   • Overview: Minimally invasive techniques to repair congenital heart defects without opening the chest or heart.

   • Process:

     • A thin catheter is inserted through a leg vein and guided to the heart using X-ray imaging.

     • Tools like a mesh patch or plug are threaded through the catheter to seal holes or repair defects.

     • Heart tissue grows around the mesh, sealing the defect permanently within three months.

   • Eligibility: Suitable for children aged 5 years and above, as well as adults.

   • Post-Treatment Care:

     • Medications: Aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs are prescribed for at least six months to prevent clot formation.

     • Follow-Ups: Regular echocardiogram checkups at 1, 3, 6 months, and 1 year post-procedure.

     • Adherence: Patients must strictly follow all medical advice from cardiologists.

3. Limitations of Catheterization:

   • Although effective for up to 75% of cases, catheterization may not be suitable for complex conditions.

   • Heart Surgery: For complicated or severe defects, surgery remains the first-line treatment.

4. Factors Influencing Treatment:

   • The choice of procedure depends on the size, type, and location of the defect, as well as the patient’s overall health.

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