The sudden death of a 9-year-old girl in rajasthan due to a suspected heart attack has shocked everyone. Fourth grade student Prachi Kumawat was going to have lunch when she suddenly fainted and did not regain consciousness. Usually heart attack is associated with the elderly, but this incident shows that this danger exists in young children as well. Although these cases are very rare in children, but they are also serious. In such a situation, let us tell you today how not only the elderly but children can also have a heart attack. What are its symptoms, causes and prevention measures.
Cases of heart attack in children are very few but possible
Cases of heart attack in children are very few as compared to adults. But it is not completely impossible. In young people, it usually occurs due to plaque accumulation in the arteries. Whereas in children, there are many other complex and rare reasons behind it, such as congenital heart problems. In which the structure or functioning of the heart is affected from birth. Apart from this, some virus infections can cause inflammation in the heart muscles which is called myocarditis. Sudden serious injuries to the chest during sports can also sometimes damage the heart. At the same time, some blood related diseases and genetic conditions can also cause a condition like heart attack in children.
Symptoms are not always clear in children
It is difficult to identify heart problems in small children. Because they are not able to clearly tell their problem. However, there are some signs that cannot be ignored such as chest pain during any physical activity, fainting, very fast heartbeat, irregularity, shortness of breath or getting tired very quickly. In some cases, the color of the skin of children, especially lips, fingers or toenails can be blue or muddy. Sweating without any apparent reason can also be a sign. In infants, this condition can appear in the form of lack of appetite, irritability, not gaining weight or diarrhea and vomiting without reason.
Causes are different from those in adults
The causes of heart attacks in children are quite different from those in adults. The most common cause is structural problems of the heart present from birth. These are called congenital heart problems. Apart from this, a disease called Kawasaki which causes inflammation in the blood vessels in children. It can also damage the heart arteries. Viral infection can cause myocarditis which weakens the heart muscles. Some children have problems related to heartbeat from birth which can lead to fatal myocardial arrhythmia or sudden cardiac arrest. In some cases, problems of blood clotting or sudden physical trauma are also responsible.
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