Dallas
214-456-2333
Fax: 214-456-2714
Plano
469-303-4300
Fax: 469-303-4310
Park Cities
469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001
Prosper
469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511
Request an Appointment with codes: Cardiology (Heart Center)
Acquired heart disease
Acquired heart disease is a problem that develops after birth. Our team of experts are prepared to treat children with any critical care diagnosis or crisis, including congenital or acquired heart disease. At Children's Health℠, we provide patient-centered care, which means we put your child’s interests at the forefront.
What is acquired heart disease?
Acquired heart disease is a heart problem that develops after birth, and is less common in children than adults.
What are the different types of acquired heart disease?
Rheumatic heart disease
Kawasaki Disease
What are the signs and symptoms of acquired heart disease?
Symptoms of rheumatic heart disease
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs and abdomen
- Heart palpitations
- Flaring of the nostrils
- Fatigue
Symptoms of Kawasaki disease
- Fever
- Red eyes
- Red lips and tongue
- Rash
- Swollen hands and feet
- Swollen lymph nodes
How is acquired heart disease diagnosed?
The following tests are used to diagnose acquired heart disease.
Your child's doctor may use a combination of these tests:
History and physical exam
Blood tests
Chest X-ray
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
A noninvasive test that records the heart's electrical activity
Echocardiogram
A noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart.
Cardiac catheterization
A test that involves passing a thin flexible tube (catheter) through the groin and into the heart.
What are the causes of acquired heart disease?
Rheumatic heart disease is caused by rheumatic fever. The exact cause of Kawasaki disease is unknown.
How is acquired heart disease treated?
Heart disease is a critical condition that requires constant oversight by a team of specially-trained caregivers. We work closely with nurses, respiratory therapists and other team members to ensure that your child gets whatever is needed at a moment's notice.
The following are customary treatments for both congenital and acquired heart disease. Your child's doctor may use a combination of these treatment methods.
Medication
Medications to fight infection, improve blood flow, reduce the heart's workload, decrease inflammation and prevent blood clots.
Cardiac catheterization
Procedures to repair minor defects
Surgery
Surgery to repair major defects
Heart transplant
Acquired heart disease doctors and providers
-
Pooja Desai, MD Pediatric Cardiologist -
Kavita Sharma, MD Pediatric Cardiologist
Resources
We have multiple resources that are designed to not only meet the needs of your child, but also your entire family.
Some of those resources include: