Recent tragic incidents have highlighted growing concerns about the health of young children in schools. In a heartbreaking case from Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, a 7-year-old girl studying in Class 1A collapsed while playing with her friends during recess. She was rushed to a private hospital by her family, but doctors could not revive her. In another incident 15 days ago, a 14-year-old boy from a village in Aligarh died of a heart attack during a school sports competition.
In the last few years, the number of heart attacks and deaths due to them in children has increased, which is a matter of great concern for parents and families. In this article, we will know about the possible causes, its symptoms and ways to avoid it.
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked.
Potential causes of Heart Attack in Children
Heart attacks in children are rare because the risk factors that trigger them usually develop later in life. However, there are some conditions that can cause heart attacks in children, including:
Congenital heart Defects: Congenital heart disease, or congenital heart defects, is an umbrella term for birth-related heart conditions. It affects around 1% of live births. Children with a history of certain congenital heart defects are at higher risk than others for having a heart attack from the blockage of a coronary artery.
Myocarditis: Some children develop myocarditis, a rare immune response to a viral infection, common cold, rhinovirus, enterovirus or coronavirus. These infections can cause inflammation of the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This occurs in about one or two of every 100,000 children each year.
Kawasaki disease: This disease usually affects children aged 5 years and under and can damage the heart muscle or coronary arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
Coronary artery vasospasms: These are sudden narrowing of the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. They can be caused by vaping and can lead to chest pain, pressure, and tightness.
Chest trauma: Research also considers blunt chest trauma, due to injury or an accident, as a rare cause of heart attack in children.
Genetic Factors: A family history of heart disease can predispose children to conditions like hypercholesterolemia, which raises heart attack risks.
Obesity and Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity can contribute to the early onset of atherosclerosis—a key factor in heart disease.
Warning sign of heart attack in children
Recognizing the signs of a heart attack in children can be challenging because they may differ from adults. However, there may be signs such as: unexplained fainting, vomiting, cold sweats without physical effort and difficulty in breathing, or detection of an abnormal heart condition during the treatment of other illnesses.
If such symptoms are observed, it is crucial to have a thorough cardiac evaluation for the child.
Ways to help prevent heart attack in children
Doctors advised that while the incidence of sudden cardiac death in children is relatively rare – occurring in 2 to 4 out of every 1 lakh children, there are several preventive measures such as lifestyle changes and medications can help prevent heart attacks.
Manage Weight: Ensure that your child maintains a healthy weight, as obesity can contribute to various health issues, including heart problems.
Monitor Symptoms: If your child exhibits any unusual symptoms, such as fainting or difficulty breathing, seek a medical evaluation immediately.
Cardiac Checkups: If your child has experienced sudden fainting, have their cardiac activity assessed to rule out any underlying heart conditions.
Healthy Diet: Provide a nutritious diet and avoid junk food to support overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Know family history: Find out if heart disease runs in your family and tell your paediatrician
Timely Vaccinations: Protect children from infections that can lead to complications like myocarditis.
A healthy lifestyle reduces the risk for heart disease. By following these steps, you can help safeguard your child’s heart health and potentially prevent sudden heart attack.
