
[ad_1]
In February, many of us focus on matters of the heart, which are at the heart of our health, not just all the lace and ribbons. American Heart Month reminds us to prioritize lifestyle practices that contribute to a stronger, healthier heart. Dr. Upinder Jodhka, a pediatric cardiologist at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, offers practical tips to assist parents in protecting and nurturing their children’s cardiovascular health.
Why is it important to focus on children’s heart health?
Ensuring your child’s heart health is extremely important as it directly impacts their future as an adult. Just as unhealthy habits can be developed early in life, healthy habits can be developed as well. Encouraging and ingraining healthy habits in childhood increases the likelihood that those habits will continue into adulthood.
What are the specific signs and symptoms that parents should look out for as they may indicate a possible heart condition in their child?
Parents should be aware of cardiac symptoms during exercise. This may indicate a congenital heart disease or an underlying heart problem. These symptoms include fainting, chest pain, palpitations, feeling like your heart is “funny” or “pounding,” and feeling tired. If these signs are observed, especially during exercise, the child should stop the activity and seek medical advice. Additionally, be wary of bluish or purplish skin, lips, or nails, especially in infants.
What role does genetics play in heart disease in children, and how can families with a history of heart disease take precautions?
Genetics has a huge impact on your child’s heart health. Family members with a history of congenital heart disease, sudden cardiac death before age 50, heart transplant, arrhythmia, or connective tissue disease should inform their health care provider. Early identification of these family conditions allows preventive measures to be taken that may save the child’s life.
How does nutrition affect a child’s heart health, and what dietary recommendations are there for parents?
Nutrition is essential for a healthy heart. Parents should aim to feed their children five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, eliminate sugary drinks, limit junk and processed foods, and ensure adequate fluid intake.
What specific lifestyle habits and behaviors contribute to heart disease in children, and how can parents encourage healthier habits?
Excessive screen time is associated with poor sleep, increased risk of obesity, attention problems, and delayed social skills. It’s important to limit screen time to less than two hours per day. Parents should preview programs, games, and apps before offering them to their children and encourage at least one hour of physical activity for her each day, such as planned sports or outdoor play. .
Are there routine screenings or tests that parents should consider for their children to assess heart health?
Assessing a child’s body mass index (BMI) during a routine pediatric visit is helpful in assessing heart health and obesity risk. If your child has heart symptoms or a family history of heart disease, an electrocardiogram screening may be considered under the guidance of your health care provider.
How can parents communicate with their children about maintaining a healthy heart without causing anxiety or stress?
Parents need to lead by example and actively adopt and demonstrate healthy behaviors. Children can take charge of their health by engaging in heart-healthy activities together, such as exercising outdoors and cooking nutritious meals.
Do you have any advice for parents on creating a heart-healthy home environment?
Make changes gradually and start small so you don’t burden the whole family. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is a gradual process, and mutual commitment and support within the family is essential for success.
Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is ranked among the best hospitals in the nation for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report. Learn more about world-class cardiac care for infants, children, and adolescents online.
[ad_2]
Source link