Should Your Teenager with Heart Concerns Get a Check-Up?

Pediatric heart problems

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if you would recommend her to get checked again given the following situation: 1.
Her parents mentioned that she had a hole in her heart when she was a child, but they are unclear about the details afterward.
2.
She experiences prolonged shortness of breath compared to her peers after exercising.
For example, after running a 4x100m relay, she takes longer to recover and is still out of breath when her three teammates have already recovered.
She is an 18-year-old female.
Would you recommend that she go to the hospital for an examination?

Xiao Qi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/04

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it is recommended that she come to the hospital for an examination.
Ping An Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/07/04

More Info

When it comes to the health of teenagers, particularly regarding heart concerns, it is crucial to take any symptoms seriously, especially if there is a history of heart issues. In the case you presented, there are two significant factors to consider: the history of a heart defect in childhood and the current symptoms of prolonged breathlessness after exertion.

1. History of Heart Defect: If the teenager had a heart defect, such as a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) or an atrial septal defect (ASD), it is essential to understand whether this condition was resolved or monitored over time. Many children with minor heart defects can lead normal lives, but some may require ongoing monitoring or even surgical intervention. If there has been no follow-up since childhood, it would be prudent to consult a cardiologist to assess whether the heart defect has had any lasting effects.

2. Symptoms of Breathlessness: The fact that this teenager experiences prolonged breathlessness after physical activity is concerning. While some individuals may naturally take longer to recover from exertion, significant differences in recovery time compared to peers could indicate an underlying issue. This could range from exercise-induced asthma to more serious cardiac conditions.
Given these two points, I would strongly recommend that the teenager undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, ideally a pediatric cardiologist. This evaluation may include:
- Echocardiogram: This ultrasound of the heart can help visualize any structural abnormalities and assess heart function.

- Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart and can identify irregular heart rhythms or other issues.

- Exercise Stress Test: This test can help determine how the heart responds to physical exertion and identify any potential problems that may not be apparent at rest.

- Holter Monitor: If there are concerns about heart rhythm, a Holter monitor can provide continuous ECG monitoring over 24 hours or more.

In addition to these tests, it is essential to discuss any other symptoms the teenager may be experiencing, such as chest pain, palpitations, or dizziness, as these can provide further insight into her condition.

Psychological Factors: It is also worth noting that anxiety and stress can manifest physically, sometimes mimicking or exacerbating heart-related symptoms. If the teenager is experiencing anxiety about her health, it may be beneficial to address these concerns with a mental health professional.
In conclusion, given the history of a heart defect and the current symptoms of breathlessness, I would strongly advise a check-up with a healthcare provider. Early intervention can be crucial in managing any potential heart issues and ensuring the teenager's overall well-being. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart health, especially in young individuals who may not fully understand the implications of their symptoms.

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