Tetralogy of Fallot symptoms

Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that, as the name suggests, encompasses four major structural abnormalities of the heart. The symptoms of this condition can be confusing and worrying, but knowing the symptoms can help with prompt recognition and treatment.

A notable symptom of Tetralogy of Fallot is cyanosis of the skin and lips. This is caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood, which causes the body to appear bluish. This symptom is particularly noticeable in infants and is often worse when crying or eating. Cyanosis occurs because abnormalities in the structure of the heart prevent oxygen-poor blood from flowing to the body.

Children with tetralogy of Fallot may have poor activity tolerance. They may tire quickly or become short of breath when playing or doing physical activities. This is because the heart cannot effectively pump oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body, resulting in insufficient oxygen support for muscles and tissues.

Another common symptom is the "squat position." Many children with tetralogy of Fallot naturally squat when they feel uncomfortable or have trouble breathing. This position can temporarily increase the amount of oxygen flowing to the lungs and relieve symptoms. Parents may notice that their children often stop to squat after running or playing.

Tetralogy of Fallot may also cause growth retardation. Because the body is deprived of oxygen for a long time, your child may grow more slowly than his peers. This symptom needs to be closely monitored because it may affect your child's overall health and quality of life.

By knowing the symptoms of tetralogy of Fallot, parents and caregivers can better monitor their children's health and seek medical help when necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to improving outcomes and quality of life. If you suspect your child may have this condition, it's wise to consult a health professional promptly. With surgery and other treatments, many children with tetralogy of Fallot can live healthy, fulfilling lives.