Congestive Heart Failure

Pediatric Congestive Heart Failure

CHF occurs when the heart is overworked and cannot keep up with the needs of the body. Health care professionals and parents of children at risk for congenital heart defects should be able to recognize signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure in the very young child. Approximately 90% of children born with cardiac defects will develop CHF by their first birthday. Of those children, most will show symptoms in the first few months of life.Signs and symptoms of CHF in infants & young children:

Tachypnea: a fast respiratory rate, usually greater than 50 breaths per minute. Retractions: labored breathing, with ribs looking more prominent when the child inhales. Diaphoresis: profuse sweating Edema: swelling appearing first around the face and eyes, but also in the hands and feet Failure to gain weight Difficulty feeding: due to fatigue and shortness of breath; infant may suck vigorously at first and then tire quickly. Hepatomegaly: liver enlargement due to increased venous pressure
Cyanosis: bluish coloration of skin and lips, especially while crying.