Pulmonary Stenosis Symptoms in Children

Children with pulmonary stenosis may experience a range of symptoms depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases often present no noticeable symptoms, and affected children usually grow and develop normally. In many instances, the condition is first detected during a routine physical examination when a heart murmur is heard, prompting further diagnostic evaluation.

Moderate Pulmonary Stenosis

In cases of moderate pulmonary stenosis, children may experience symptoms such as palpitations and shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. These signs typically become more apparent as the heart works harder to pump blood through the narrowed pulmonary valve.

Severe Pulmonary Stenosis

Severe pulmonary stenosis is often associated with an atrial septal defect, such as a patent foramen ovale. In addition to difficulty breathing, children may develop cyanosis—characterized by a bluish tint to the skin due to low oxygen levels—as well as clubbing of the fingers and signs of heart failure.

Physical Changes in the Chest Area

When examining the physical characteristics of the heart, it's important to note that mild pulmonary stenosis typically does not cause any visible changes in heart size. However, in moderate cases, the right ventricle may enlarge, leading to a noticeable bulge in the chest area known as precordial bulging. This physical sign is often a key indicator for further cardiac investigation.