This page explains why doctors may advise children with heart conditions to avoid strenuous sports.
How will your child's congenital heart disease affect their physical activity?
Many children with congenital heart disease go on to lead full, normal lives, though sometimes with restrictions on how much and the type of exercising they can do. This is more likely for children with simple congenital heart disease. Their conditions can in many cases be corrected, either permanently or well enough to enable virtually trouble-free living. In some cases, however, children are advised not to participate in strenuous sports.
More and more, however, the emphasis is on the overall health and recovery benefits of physical activity, with a focus on what a child can do, as opposed to can't do. Endurance sports are usually okayed, and if it's not clear how involved a child can get in a given sport, some testing and regular monitoring can provide some greater clarity. The doctor should also do regular exercise tolerance reassessments as the child grows to see whether the condition is improving over the years to an extent that other sports may have become an option.
What is the concern over physical activity?
Doctors recommend that children with certain heart conditions avoid certain types of physical activity, generally competitive and contact sports. These restrictions depend on how severe the heart condition is. The concern is that the interaction might physically further damage the heart or that the intense activity can over-excite the heart. When the body is working hard, adrenaline is released into the blood stream. This too has the potential to irritate, and potentially further damage, the heart.
How do you help your child cope with physical limitations?
It can be tough, especially for older children, to be unable to participate fully in sports and other physical activities. They will be frustrated by not being able to have fun with their friends and may feel left out. This will be especially difficult for children diagnosed later in life who had previously excelled in sports. It's critical that they understand, however, why it is so important to choose their activities carefully and observe athletic activity restrictions, particularly if they "feel fine" and don't seem to have symptoms.
As a parent, you can encourage your child to participate in safe sports, such as swimming, golf, and house leagues. Your doctor will be able to confirm which sports are acceptable for your child. Everyday family activities are also safe. You can also encourage your child to develop skills in other areas and engage in alternate activities that can be equally satisfying.
If your child is quite young, you will need to make sure that teachers at your child's school are aware of their physical activity restrictions. Meet with your child's teachers or write a letter to the school, or ask the doctor or nurse to write one. With advance notice, many teachers can arrange for alternate activities that will help your child feel included.
How can you help your child get used to new physical ability?
Many children, after treatment, find themselves feeling much better and able to participate in activities they were previously unable to do. Some children may be afraid of engaging in activities that before were "off limits." As a parent, encourage your child to gradually participate in activities that appeal to them. You too may also need to overcome some fear about seeing your child engage in more vigorous activity.
Outdoor activity and sun exposure
It's important that everyone have sun smarts. No doctor will encourage anyone to actively sun tan, or spend extended amounts of time in the sun, simply because of the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. There are also added risks for some children with CHD who have to take medications, like amiodarone, that make the skin more sun-sensitive. This can cause the skin to be discoloured if exposed to the sun. So it’s best to play it safe and follow these guidelines:
- avoid exposure at peak sun hours
- stick to the shade as much as possible
- cover up with hats and long-sleeved shirts
- use sunblock with a high SPF