Arrhythmias are common in kids. The heart’s electrical system normally beats in a coordinated, rhythmic pattern. In children who have an arrhythmia, the heart may beat too slowly, too quickly or irregularly.

“Arrhythmias are related to a problem in the heart’s electrical system.  They may be caused by abnormalities in how or where the electrical impulse is generated, how it is spread through the heart, or even  a short circuit in the  electrical system,” said Dr. Thomas Chin, co-director of Le Bonheur’s Heart Institute.

There are many causes of arrhythmias in children, including:

• Genetics. Arrhythmias can run in the family.  Examples would be Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, or prolonged QT syndrome.
• An immature heart. Newborns experience arrhythmias when the electrical system of the heart is still immature. In these cases, children can outgrow their arrhythmia.
• Congenital heart defects. Arrhythmia can be associated with certain congenital heart defects like Ebstein’s anomaly.
• Arrhythmias are frequently associated with cardiomyopathies (abnormalities in the muscle of the heart,) or myocarditis (infection of the heart).

In our Heart Institute, Pediatric Electrophysiologist Dr. Glenn Wetzel specializes in pediatric arrhythmias. Treatment options can include:

• Medication.
• Pacemakers and defibrillators to control the heartbeat. 
• Ablation procedures to eliminate the  area of the heart causing which is causing the arrhythmia.

If you have a concern about your child’s heart health or any family history issues, discuss those with your pediatrician.

Sept. 29 is “World Heart Day,” proclaimed by the World Heart Federation. Pediatric Cardiologist Alex Arevalo, MD, shares some tips below for parents who want to encourage their kids to live a heart-healthy life.

What should kids do to maintain a healthy heart?
There are two key components to getting a healthy start:  eating healthy and being physically active.  Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand.  To be able to perform well in daily activities, kids must have a well-balanced meal.  Kids have to be taught to eat nutritiously and should be provided healthy food options at home and at school. 

Also, kids are recommended to exercise at least 150 minutes a week.   That equates to 30 minutes of vigorous exercise five days a week.  In the end, I think we just need to let kids be kids. Most kids innately love being outside and playing.  If we can provide them a fun and safe environment, they will go out and explore.

Explain how developing healthy habits early on can lead to a healthier lifestyle later.
We learn from all our life experiences.  Our experiences as kids help shape who we are today.  If we learn bad habits early on in life -- like eating fried and sugary foods -- it will be harder to give up those habits when we are older. 

As a bonus, physical activity not only stimulates your body, but also stimulates your mind. Studies show that kids who are physically active perform better in school. Also, people who exercise daily tend to be happier people over all. If kids learn the importance of exercise early and continue to incorporate exercise into their lives as adults, they will dramatically improve their cholesterol levels, lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart disease.

When should a child visit a cardiologist? Are there certain symptoms to watch for?
If your child is experiencing chest pain or passing out during physical activity, he or she should visit a cardiologist.