Neonatal cardiology encompasses a wide range of heart-related conditions in infants, including supraventricular tachycardia (a condition where your heart suddenly beats much faster than normal), inherited long QT syndrome, congenital heart defects and others.
Cardiological conditions are usually noticed shortly after birth or during the first few months after birth.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Signs and symptoms of cardiological conditions in infants include:
- Rapid breathing
- Swelling in the legs, abdomen or area around the eyes
- Shortness of breath during feeding
- Poor weight gain
- Pale grey or blue lips, tongue or fingernails (cyanosis)
Tests to diagnose cardiological conditions in infants include:
Pulse oximetry: Blood oxygen levels are measured by a sensor on the fingertip. Too little oxygen indicates a heart or lung problem.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): In this noninvasive test, the heart's electrical activity is recorded. Sticky patches with sensors (electrodes) cover the chest and wires connect the patches to a computer, which displays the results. An ECG can be used to diagnose irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
Echocardiography: This assessment allows for the diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Chest X-ray: The condition of the heart and lungs can be determined by a chest X-ray. The test can show if the heart is enlarged or if the lungs contain extra blood or fluid, indicating signs of heart failure.
