Chest Pain in Children: When to Worry? Assessment and Care
Understanding the Causes of Chest Pain and Ensuring Proper Evaluation
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we know that chest pain in children can be alarming and distressing for parents.
Our team provides expert evaluation to determine whether a child’s chest pain is related to the heart or caused by other, often less serious, factors like muscle strain, anxiety, or respiratory issues.
We offer complete pediatric chest pain assessment services across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain, helping families find clarity and peace of mind quickly.
Our approach is fully supported by our broader Pediatric Cardiology Services, ensuring that every concern is addressed thoroughly.
How Common is Chest Pain in Children?
Chest pain is relatively common in children and teenagers.
Fortunately, the majority of cases are not related to heart disease. In many cases, pain may arise from:
- Musculoskeletal strain (costochondritis)
- Anxiety, panic attacks, or emotional stress
- Asthma or other respiratory conditions
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Minor trauma or injury during sports or play
However, careful evaluation is necessary to rule out the rare but serious cardiac causes.
When to Seek a Pediatric Cardiac Evaluation
While most chest pain is benign, your child should be seen by a Pediatric Cardiologist if the chest pain:
- Occurs during exercise or physical activity
- Is associated with fainting, dizziness, or shortness of breath
- Is persistent, worsening, or severe in nature
- Comes with palpitations or a fast heartbeat
- Occurs in a child with a known heart condition
- Is associated with a family history of sudden cardiac death or inherited cardiac diseases
Prompt assessment helps identify or rule out heart-related causes confidently.
Our Approach to Chest Pain Evaluation
At KidsHeart, our evaluation typically includes:
- Detailed medical history review to understand the pain nature.
- Physical examination focusing on the heart, lungs, muscles, and bones.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm, or signs of decrease blood flow to the heart muscles.
- Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) if needed to view heart structure and function.
- Exercise testing with pulmonary function measurement if chest pain is triggered by activity.
- Referral for respiratory or gastrointestinal evaluation if another cause is suspected.
Our goal is to ensure that no potential issue is overlooked — while avoiding unnecessary worry.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Evaluations conducted by experienced Pediatric Cardiologists
- Comprehensive testing available on-site for rapid answers
- Family-centered communication — we explain findings in clear, supportive terms
- Coordination with respiratory, gastrointestinal, or psychological specialists when needed
Our priority is your child’s safety, comfort, and your peace of mind.
Dr Mohamed Sulaiman
Consultant, Fetal & Pediatric Cardiologist – American Board Assistant professor, Columbia University, New York
Dr. Ala Anbar
Consultant Pediatric Cardiologist – ARDMS/RDCS/ASE/Jordanian Board
Dr. Heba Ghazy
Consultant, Pediatrics/Pediatric Cardiology MD, MRCPCH, EACVI certified in CHD
Dr. Salwa Morcos Gendi
Consultant Fetal, Pediatric Cardiologist, and Adults with CHD
Putting Your Mind at Ease with Expert Care
At KidsHeart, we understand how worrying chest pain in children can be.
Our team offers fast, thorough evaluations to ensure that your child’s heart health is protected — and your questions are answered.
We proudly provide pediatric chest pain assessments in Major Cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In most cases, chest pain in children is not related to the heart. However, evaluation is important to confirm this and reassure the family.
Basic evaluation may involve an ECG and physical exam. Further tests like echocardiograms or exercise testing are done if needed based on the findings.
Until cleared by a specialist, it’s best to limit strenuous activity if chest pain occurs during exercise.
Yes. Emotional stress and anxiety are common causes of chest discomfort in children and teenagers.
Stop the activity immediately and seek a medical evaluation to rule out a cardiac cause before resuming sports.