How Pediatric Cardiologists Diagnose and Treat Heart Defects

Children's heart defects known as congenital heart defects (CHDs) are structural abnormalities present from birth. These defects can vary significantly - while some might be so mild that treatment isn't necessary, others could be so grave that medical help needs to be administered without delay. Cardiac pediatricians like Dr. Jigar K. Shah are specialized in diagnosing and treating these heart-related issues among babies, children, and teenagers.

How Pediatric Cardiologists Diagnose Heart Defects 

For any form of treatment, diagnosis comes first, and it needs to be precise. Pediatric cardiologists are equipped with different advanced diagnostic technology that includes but is not limited to:
1. Echocardiogram (Echo)
An Echo exam is a type of ultrasound used primarily to diagnose CHDs. It permits visualisation of the heart's chambers, the valves, and blood flow patterns as it allows for the observation of the heartbeat in real time.
2. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
By measuring the heart's electrical activity, an ECG enables identification of abnormal heart rhythms, any other electrical changes, and the heart itself.
3. Chest X-ray
A representation of the lungs and heart visually is possible through a chest x-ray which, in return, aids in recognizing the enlargement of heart structures and any possible fluid indentations.

4. Cardiac MRI
An imaging technique Cardiac MRI permits a thorough investigation and assessment of the lungs and all encompassing anatomical structures.
5. Cardiac Catheterization
A cardiac catheterisation is an examination that involves making an incision in the porcelain cavity of the heart resulting in the possibility of determining the levels of oxygen present along with other functions.

A Guide to Treating Congenital Heart Defects

The treatment methods utilize the degree of the defect as a guide and some of these methods are:
1. Medication
Heart defects may be resolved through treatment that includes heart and blood function medicine as well as antiarrhythmic medicine.
2. Interventional procedure
Certain catheter based interventional procedures are available for some of the CHDs that are performed without cavity surgery for insertion devices for heart abnormality repairs.
3. Surgical procedure
Severe defects require the correction or reconstruction of the heart's structures through open-heart surgery.
4.  Heart Transplant
A transplant is the most suitable solution for a patient whose defect is simply impossible to repair.

Why Choose Dr. Jigar K. Shah – Pediatric Cardiologist In Lucknow 
Dr. Jigar K. Shah is a trusted name as an experienced Pediatric Cardiologist In Lucknow. He offers complete pediatric cardiac services at Chandan Hospital, Lucknow after having diagnosed and treated a patient suffering from congenital heart defect. His specialty is in complicated heart surgeries using minimal access procedures for the best result in young patients.

FAQs

Q1: What are the common symptoms of congenital heart defects in children?
Defects of children’s hearts manifest through intense breathlessness, extreme tiredness, delayed growth, difficulty in feeding, and bluish colored skin known as cyanosis.
Q2: Can congenital heart defects be detected before birth?
Yes, fetal echocardiography allows diagnosis of many CHDs and can be executed during pregnancy.
Q3: Are congenital heart defects always life-threatening?
No, some of them are small and do not need any kind of intervention or medical treatment while some require surgical assistance.
Q4: What is the long-term outlook for children with congenital heart defects?
Most children suffering from CHDs lead long healthy lives except when neglected through treatment and follow-ups.
Q5: How can I book an appointment with Dr. Jigar K. Shah?
Appointments can be booked through the website or directly by calling the clinic, and his team guarantees the most effective pediatric services in Lucknow.