Yes, a 17-year-old can have heart problems.
Heart problems in teenagers, while not as common as in older adults, do occur. Certain conditions can affect this age group, sometimes with serious consequences.
Common Heart Problems in Young People
While a 17-year-old can experience various heart problems, some conditions are more prevalent than others:
- Congenital Heart Defects: These are heart defects present at birth. While many are diagnosed and treated early in life, some milder defects might not be detected until adolescence or adulthood.
- Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms can occur in teenagers. Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others can be life-threatening.
- Cardiomyopathy: This is a disease of the heart muscle that can make it harder for the heart to pump blood. As cited, cardiomyopathy is one of the common causes of sudden cardiac death in children under the age of 18. Because the disease can be present without symptoms, families should be aware of any family members who have heart disease or who die unexpectedly before age 50.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) can affect heart function.
- Kawasaki Disease: Though more common in younger children, Kawasaki disease, if untreated, can lead to heart problems in teenagers.
- Rheumatic Fever: Can cause permanent damage to the heart valves.
Why is this Important?
It is vital to be aware of the possibility of heart problems in teenagers because some conditions can lead to serious complications, including sudden cardiac arrest.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Factors that can increase the risk of heart problems in teenagers include:
- Family history of heart disease or sudden death.
- Obesity.
- High blood pressure.
- High cholesterol.
- Smoking or vaping.
- Drug use.
- Certain medical conditions.
While not all heart problems are preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid smoking, vaping, and drug use.
- Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Get regular check-ups with a doctor, especially if there is a family history of heart issues.
