How to Recognize Myocarditis in Children

One of the most common types of myocarditis is infectious myocarditis. Many children diagnosed with this condition typically have a history of prior infection, often involving the respiratory or gastrointestinal systems within one to two weeks before the onset of myocarditis symptoms. In the early stages, children may exhibit mild symptoms such as low-grade fever, nasal congestion, coughing, runny nose, or even abdominal pain and diarrhea—signs that may initially resemble a common cold or stomach virus.

Key Symptoms to Watch For

As the condition progresses, some children may experience more specific symptoms related to heart involvement. These can include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or discomfort in the chest area. In more severe cases, children might complain of chest pain or dizziness, which are red flags indicating potential cardiac involvement and warrant immediate medical attention.

Diagnostic Procedures and Tests

Essential Diagnostic Tools

To confirm a diagnosis of myocarditis, doctors typically rely on a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. Blood tests, particularly cardiac enzyme panels, can reveal elevated levels of markers such as creatine kinase (CK-MB) or cardiac troponins, which suggest heart muscle damage.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is also crucial in identifying abnormal heart rhythms or changes in heart activity. Common ECG findings in children with myocarditis include ST-segment depression, premature contractions, conduction delays, or intraventricular block.

Imaging and Heart Function Assessment

Echocardiography plays a key role in evaluating heart structure and function. In many cases, an ultrasound of the heart may show mild enlargement of the left ventricle or a slight decrease in heart function. When these findings are combined with a recent history of infection and the presence of cardiac symptoms, the likelihood of myocarditis increases significantly.

Next Steps After Diagnosis

If your child exhibits any of these signs and test results support a diagnosis of myocarditis, it is highly recommended to seek care from a pediatric cardiologist or a heart specialist in a cardiovascular clinic. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for a full recovery and to prevent potential complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias.