sinus tachycardia in babies

[Alaska2007]

We have a 2 week old newborn and he has been diagnosed with sinus tachycardia since he was born - the doctors say it is common with many newborns(AF doctors, not saying they are different than others, but we are all human) and we should not be worried, however we have a bit of concern as we only want the best for our son. We are living in England with the USAF and we requested to see a cardio specialist for babies in Cambridge, off base. Should we be concerned and looking into other opinions? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

[kitcurious]

It's always good to get another opinion if you can. When our son was born he had a fast respiratory (and heart) rate and was placed in the NICU. After a week they let us have him just long enough to transport him to Children's Hospital for a cardiac evaluation.

Turns out he had a hole in his heart, but we would be able to take him home the next day and bring him back every 6-8 weeks for an echo. The hole closed on its own by the time he was a year old and he thrived.

If your baby had a seriously concerning set of symptoms, they would likely have been more cautious to begin with so you're probably okay. Still, you are naturally worried and the second opinion may ease your mind.

Good luck with the appointment.

[anacyde]

I agree with the former comment.  Second opinions can't hurt.  My son had plagiocephaly (basically, his head was misshapen) and I took him to a local doctor who thought he would be fine...but still worried I took him to a pediatric neurology specialist at Cleveland Clinic.  16 months later he is fine, and though they originally said his head would need a band, it didn't.  Chances are things will be fine, but hearing it twice sure is reassuring.

Congratulations on your new baby!