What is Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease is heart disease in the newborn, and includes congenital heart defects, congenital arrythmias, cardiomyopathies, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Con...
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9 year old grandson leaking valves
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our grandson was diagnosed yesterday with leaking valves and enlarged heart, we are all in shock. He has to see a heart surgeon in a few weeks to discuss what is to be done to help him. He has been getting chest pain during the night and breathlessness also during the day on exertion. He has been told he cannot play football and to be careful with any exertion my son has allowed him to continue using his trampoline and I am a little worried that it may be putting extra stress on his leaking valves, my son dosn't want to stop all of his activites especially as he is so active and very upset that he cannot play football. Does anyone know what kind of exercise places the most stress on leaking valves? Also, after treatment will he be able to lead a normal life and play football again.
Posted on 06/02/09, 05:06 pm |
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Hi, I'm sorry to hear about your grandson's condition.
My son was born with a congenital heart defect that resulted in his valves being too small. This caused other valves to leak and the right side of his heart was enlarged. He also struggled to breath and was on light activity. He's now going to be six in 3 weeks. He has undergone 6 open heart surgeries to replace both his aortic and mitral valves. His last surgery was 3 1/2 years ago. He is doing pretty well now, but will need future surgery. His heart is less enlarged now. His breathing is not labored and he can run and play like any other 5/6 year old. We were told no sports. Especially no contact sports. He takes warfarin, a blood thinner, and will for the rest of his life. One valve is mechanical. I know this can be disappointing to any kid, but sports have to be avoided if that's what the cardiologist suggests. There are too many risks, between bleeding, and heart failure. I was told normal "play" activities are fine for him now. I limited him before his last surgery, but he was only 2. Your guy is 9. Remember, valves leak because the pressures are so severe the valves can't hold the blood back. Anything that increases the pressures or puts extra strain on the heart should be avoided. That includes activity and over the counter medications. I wish you the best. Life will change for him, but he doesn't have to stop living! 
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