Chest Pain in Children and Teenagers
What causes Chest Pain?
Chest pain in children and teenagers is relatively common and frequently causes anxiety for children, parents, and grandparents. It can be due to a problem with the heart, hence a cardiac assessment is recommended. It can also be due to respiratory (breathing), musculoskeletal, or other rare causes. Reassuringly, most cases are benign.
Symptoms
Chest pain may occur at rest. Usually the cause is not cardiac. However, if the chest pain is associated with any of the following, get immediate medical help (call an ambulance without delay):
- Fainting
- Fever or sweating
- Severe or ripping sensation in the chest
- Fast heart rate
- Difficulty in breathing or pallor
- Family history of dissection or Marfan syndrome
Note: Chest pain associated with exercise must always be assessed by a doctor.
Diagnosis
Dr Naqvi advises that it is helpful to obtain as much information as possible regarding cardiac problems running in your child’s family. Please bring this with you to your appointment.
A clinical examination, an ECG, and an Echocardiogram will be performed. If chest pain occurs on exercise, an Exercise Test will also be advised.
Treatment & Prognosis
If no cardiac cause is found and the cause is believed to be musculoskeletal, simple painkillers will be recommended. If a cardiac cause is found, treatment will vary with the condition.
Most cases of chest pain resolve spontaneously with time.
Comprehensive Assessment
Expert evaluation of family history and clinical symptoms using advanced diagnostics.
Tailored Care
Individualized treatment plans based on precise diagnostic findings.