Pediatric Cardiology

What is pediatric cardiology?

Pediatric cardiology is a branch of medicine that deals with the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of heart-related problems in babies, children, and teenagers. Dr. Ahmad has over 10 years of experience in cardiology. He completed his training in a children’s hospital in Toronto, and was a staff member at Columbia University Children’s Hospital of New York.

What are the signs and symptoms of a heart problem?

If your child has a heart problem, such as a congenital heart defect, they may experience the following signs or symptoms:

• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Bluish skin
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling
• Enlarged liver
• Large neck veins
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fatigue

• Heavy sweating
• Low blood oxygen
• Cold hands and feet

See Dr. Ahmad and his team at the first sign of a heart problem. The earlier you seek treatment for your child, the better their outcome. Pediatric Specialty Practices providers see patients up to age 39 for cardiology services.

What happens during pediatric cardiology appointments?

When your child arrives at their pediatric cardiology appointment, friendly staff members greet them. They check your child’s weight, height, pulse, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Dr. Ahmad reviews their medical history and symptoms, completes a physical exam, and listens to your child’s heart using a stethoscope. 

He might recommend diagnostic testing procedures, such as blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, a Holter monitor, or stress tests to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

What are common pediatric cardiology treatments?

Depending on the type of heart problem your child experiences, such as a congenital defect or high blood pressure, Dr. Ahmad may suggest one of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating a heart-healthy diet, reducing sodium, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight, can reduce high blood pressure in children and adults.

Medications

Taking blood pressure or heart medications can reduce your child’s risk of a serious medical problem.

Heart procedures

In some cases, Dr. Ahmad may recommend your child undergo a surgical procedure to repair a heart or blood vessel irregularity. He can refer you to a highly trained surgeon in your area.

Transplants

In severe cases of heart disease, a heart transplant is the best chance your child has of regaining optimal health and strength.

If your child is at risk of a heart problem or they experience symptoms of one, you can trust the exceptional pediatrics cardiology team at Pediatrician Specialty Practices for quality care. Book an appointment by calling the office or use the online scheduler today.