Cor Pulmonale in Infancy
Cor Pulmonale is defined as when the right side of the heart fails to function properly, usually as a result of long-term blood pressure in the right side of the heart, as well as the pulmonary arteries. The right side of the heart normally functions by pumping blood at a lower blood pressure, when compared to the left side of the heart, which pumps blood to the rest of the body at a higher pressure. When a condition increases the blood pressure rate of the right side of the heart, cor pulmonale is the result. The heart loses it’s ability to normally pump blood to the lungs.
In infants, this is commonly seen with chronic lung disease, which can often be associated with ventilated NICU premature babies.
Symtpoms
Symptoms for infants with cor pulmonale can include, but are not restricted to the follwing:
- shortness of breath
- swelling of neck veins
- cyanosis (when skin turns blue)
- abnormal heart sounds
- swelling of feet or ankles
Cor pulmonale can be diagnosed with the help of blood tests, x-rays, and echocardiograms.
Treatment
Treatment of cor pulmonale in infants should be discussed with the baby’s primary care physician or specialist. Supplemental oxygen may be required, but often the treatment is aimed at the underlying condition causing cor pulmonale.
It is important to remember that health websites, such as this one, are strictly for educational and informational purposes only. This is not to be considered medical advice, as medical advice should be given by a doctor, physician, or in the NICU, a neonatologist or neonatal nurse practitioner. In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
