At LittleGuide Detroit, we want to make life easier for parents – which often times includes sharing cool new destinations, but also information about the best resources for your family as well – including the best pediatric hospital. Our littles our make up our hearts and we want to make sure theirs are strong and healthy, Dr. Swati Sehgal, a pediatric cardiologist from Children’s Hospital of Michigan, shares insight and tips for parents about good heart health.

Children’s Hospital of Michigan is metro Detroit’s leader in treating the most children for inpatient cardiovascular care. It is also the only hospital in the area that provides comprehensive family-centered, pediatric cardiac services. With an extensive team of pediatric cardiologists and pediatric cardiovascular surgeons, the Children’s Hospital of Michigan cardiovascular program provides a full range of advanced services for newborns, infants, children and adolescents with congenital or acquired heart disease and for adults with congenital heart disease.

Here are a few answers to common questions about pediatric heart disease.

What are the types of heart diseases in children?

The three most common heart conditions in children are heart murmurs, congenital heart disease that involves heart defects like holes in the heart or valve abnormalities or both and arrhythmias, which is abnormal heart rhythm.

  • Arrhythmias: This abnormal rhythm of the heart can keep the heart from pumping efficiently. Symptoms include dizziness, fainting and weakness.
  • Congenital Heart Disease: Affecting the heart wall, valves and blood vessels, babies can be born with this disease. Symptoms include chest paint, trouble breathing and low birth weight.
  • Heart Murmurs: If the doctor hears a “whooshing” sound between heartbeats, your child may have a heart murmur.

What type of heart screenings are available?

Screenings include an evaluation of body weight through a Body Mass Index (BMI) test as well as blood glucose, fasting lipoprotein profile (cholesterol) and blood pressure screenings. Talk with your doctor to determine the best screening for your child.

How do I lower a child’s risk for premature heart disease?

You can help lower your child’s risk of premature heart disease by implementing a heart healthy lifestyle that includes healthy diet, regular exercise and regular check-ups with their doctor.

Learn more about the services provided at Children’s Hospital of Michigan here.