Heart disease is a serious condition that typically affects adults. Most heart disease in older children and teenagers is often referred to as congenital heart disease. This means they were likely born with the condition and have had it since birth. But oftentimes hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, juvenile diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle can play a factor in the development of heart disease. It is important to recognize the symptoms and know when to seek the proper medical help.
Weakness
Watch for overall fatigue in your teenager. Activities that were once easy for them---such as riding a bike, going for a walk, playing baseball or climbing a flight of stairs---may now be too strenuous. Teenagers may appear weakened and tired, especially right after performing physical activity. They may also have shortness of breath or need to sit down to regain strength.
Syncope or passing out could be another sign of heart disease. Some teens who suffer from heart disease may also find themselves sleeping more or taking naps throughout the day just to keep up with a normal pace.
Chest Pain
Notice if they experience pain in their chest. It can be a gradual tightening and begin as a dull ache in the left side or center of the chest or abdomen. In some cases, it may be a sudden pain or attack that creates unbearable pain in the chest or neck area. The reason for the chest pain could be from a number of reasons ranging from advanced heart disease, build up fluid, blood clots, an enlarged heart or cardiac arrest. Chest pain may also accompany other symptoms of heart disease, or it could be a single symptom. Any type of chest pain should be immediately evaluated by medical personnel.
Failure to Thrive
Look out for changes in physical characteristics. Their bodies may be struggling to grow and mature because they may not have enough strength to build muscles and stamina. The teenager may also appear to look frail or pale in the face, which could be caused by lack of blood flow because the heart isn't pumping as well as it should.
A teen may also be underweight and have a minimal appetite because they always feel too weak and generally ill to eat. This means that their body is working harder to pump blood and maintain energy. A blush tint may also appear on their extremities and lips, which is due to a lack of oxygen circulating through the body.
