How to instruct children with congenital heart disease to do exercises

  Parents of children with precocious heart disease often overly restrict their children’s activities because of the disease. This can cause psychological problems and affect the child’s future development.  Children with symptoms such as shortness of breath, cyanosis, and abnormal fatigue after exercise should limit their activities; those who do not experience these symptoms after exercise should not be forced to do sports that are beyond their ability. Walking and appropriate games are good activities.  For children who have not undergone surgery, during the control period with medical therapy, avoid strenuous exercise, such as running and playing ball, etc. In general, children playing chase will not be restricted if they can tolerate it. If a child with cyanosis suddenly squats during exercise or walking, parents should not force him to continue the activity and should let him rest. School-age children can participate in school activities as appropriate. For children with more severe symptoms, ask the doctor about the child’s activities in detail. If the doctor recommends surgery to correct the problem, operate as soon as possible to avoid affecting the development of normal school life.