Many people may not be aware that children can also suffer from vascular disease. Hence, families should learn about its various types so that they may recognize the symptoms and deal with the illness as early as possible. Listed below are some types of pediatric vascular diseases.
Collagen vascular diseases manifest in the joints, blood vessels, and skin. Vital organs may also be affected by these disorders. One of the most common types is lupus, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation. Symptoms include photosensitivity, abnormal heart rhythms, and butterfly rashes. Another type is dermatomyositis, which causes red skin rashes in addition to muscle weakness and difficulty swallowing.
Blood clotting disorders may also occur in early childhood. Two common conditions are hemophilia and thrombophilia. The main difference between the two is that children (and adults) with hemophilia have trouble controlling bleeding, while those with thrombophilia are prone to blood clotting. A common treatment for the former is clotting factor replacement therapy, while treatment for the latter depends on the severity. Some children may even be treated with a low dose of aspirin.
Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune disease commonly seen in those under the age of five. Blood vessels, skin, and lymph nodes are generally affected by this disease, but in some rare cases, it can also cause fatal aneurysms if left untreated. Symptoms include strawberry tongue, high fever, and conjunctivitis. Its cause is still largely unknown, but the sick child should be treated at the hospital as soon as possible to lessen the risk of heart disease.
These are just a few examples of pediatric vascular diseases. The information above may prove useful for parents who are worried that their children may have some symptoms of disorders relating to the heart, blood vessels, and veins. Parents or caregivers who suspect that a child might have any of the conditions above should consult a vascular medicine specialist to receive more in-depth information about the illness.
Dr. Raymond Little is committed to the accurate diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases in people of all ages. Visit this website to learn more about Dr. Little and his practice.
