Heart Health Tips for Kids: Early Detection Matters
Dr. Ashish Banpurkar, Consultant – Pediatric Cardiology
VishwaRaj Hospital, Loni Kalbhor, Pune
Introduction
Heart disease is not just an adult issue. Many children are born with or develop serious heart conditions that require early medical attention. At VishwaRaj Hospital, Loni Kalbhor, Pune, we emphasize early detection of heart disease in children through our dedicated Pediatric Cardiology Department, supported by state-of-the-art PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit) and NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) facilities.
Why Early Detection in Children is Critical
Early detection of heart problems in children can mean the difference between a manageable condition and a life-threatening one. Symptoms are often subtle and can easily be mistaken for common childhood issues. Recognizing early signs and seeking timely evaluation can lead to effective intervention and a better quality of life.
Common Heart Conditions in Children:
- Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
- Cardiomyopathies Valve disorders
- Holes in the heart (ASD, VSD)
Symptoms Parents Should Watch For
Being aware of the warning signs can help parents act early:
- Rapid breathing or breathlessness
- Fatigue or tiredness during play
- Poor weight gain or difficulty feeding in infants
- Chest pain or fainting
- Bluish tint on lips orfingertips Frequent sweating
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Consult a pediatric cardiologist if your child shows any of these symptoms.
Tips to Maintain a Healthy Heart in Children
Maintaining heart health from early years can prevent serious issues later. Here are evidence-based tips:
- Encourage physical activity: Ensure children stay active with daily play or sports.
- Provide a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and reduce junk food.
- Ensure adequate sleep: Sleep is essential for growth and heart function.
- Limit screen time: Encourage more physical engagement than sedentary behavior.
- Support emotional well-being: Address stress, anxiety, and emotional health.
- Schedule routine heart check-ups: Especially important for children with family history or previous health concerns.
Pediatric Heart Care at VishwaRaj Hospital
VishwaRaj Hospital, Pune, is equipped to provide comprehensive pediatric cardiac care. The department is led by Dr. Ashish Banpurkar, an experienced consultant in pediatric cardiology and critical care.
Our Services Include
- Advanced diagnostics such as ECG, 2D Echo, and Holter monitoring
- Treatment and management of congenital and acquired heart diseases
- Integrated Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for emergency support
- State-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for newborns
- Multidisciplinary team including pediatric specialists and support staff
Why Choose VishwaRaj Hospital, Pune
VishwaRaj Hospital is one of the leading centers for pediatric heart care in Pune. Located in Loni Kalbhor, we offer compassionate, affordable, and expert-driven care to children across Pune and rural areas.
- Pediatric Cardiology Department with advanced diagnostics
- Dr. Ashish Banpurkar with specialized expertise
- 24×7 critical care services with PICU and NICU
- Family-friendly, child-safe environment
- Transparent billing with insurance and EMI options