Congestive Heart Failure in Children
Alternate Names : CHF in Children
What are the treatments for the condition?
Congestive heart failure in children can sometimes be diagnosed when the baby
is still in the womb. If this is the case, the mother can be treated with
medications and water pills. This may help lessen the effect on the baby.
After the baby is born, general treatment measures will include giving oxygen, limiting sodium in the diet, and treating underlying anemia. A heart medication called
digitalis can be used to help improve the efficiency of the heart. Water pills
help relieve some of the pressure on the heart by removing extra fluid.
In severe cases, stronger heart medications can be used to help the heart pump
with more forceful contractions. Medications that relax the blood vessels can
also be used. If the cause of CHF is
congenital heart disease, open
heart surgery may be done.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Heart medications used in the treatment of CHF can have serious side effects.
Digitalis must be used carefully to avoid toxic effects. Water pills can cause
excessive dehydration and
salt imbalances. Surgery can cause
bleeding, infection, and allergic
reactions to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Treatment of the underlying condition often eliminates the congestive heart
failure. If a structural defect is the cause of the CHF, open heart surgery can restore normal blood flow in the
body. However in some cases, long-term medical treatment is required.
Once the acute medical problem is resolved, a child with congestive heart
failure should be encouraged to reduce
coronary risk factors. This may include control of other diseases such
as diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as eating a healthy diet for heart disease.
How is the condition monitored?
Monitoring varies, depending on the underlying cause of the congestive heart
failure. Blood tests, such as a CBC
or complete blood count, can track the treatment of anemia. Kidney function tests and liver function tests help to detect any damage from
medications used to treat CHF. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported
to the health care provider.
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