Boy, 17, diagnosed with life-threatening heart failure after persistent cough in ‘hugely traumatic’ twist
A HEALTHY and fit 17-year-old boy who developed a persistent cough received a shock diagnosis of heart failure.
Christopher Quinn's heart is so weak doctors feared for his life, his devastated family shared.
The teenager, from Belfast, was studying for his A-levels and working weekends for some extra cash when he came down with a cough just before Christmas.
He continued to be plagued by the cough and was taken to A&E in early January after his symptoms worsened.
To Christopher and his family's horror, the teen was diagnosed with heart failure.
Family member Lucy Quinn said: "We were absolutely horrified and devastated to learn that he had been diagnosed with heart failure."
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The teen was immediately transferred from the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast to a specialist cardiac hospital in Newcastle.
"His heart was so weak that they feared he wouldn’t survive," Lucy wrote in a set up to support Christopher and his family.
"Despite his young age he has been incredibly resilient and brave."
She said Christopher had already undergone an eight-hour surgery, which unfortunately wasn’t successful.
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Now, the 17-year-old is gearing up to undergo another.
Lucy said her cousin Lisa, Christopher's mum, had travelled from Belfast to Newcastle to support her son, who "is still at huge risk".
"His mum and dad have been by his side 24/7 but have incredible costs to meet in having to pay for somewhere to stay for an unknown period of time, and travel costs for going to and from the hospital," Lucy wrote.
She added that Christopher had another three siblings back in Belfast.
"The family are already going through a hugely traumatic time and I would like to try to alleviate some of that pressure by ensuring they don't have to also worry about money, while she’s there supporting Christopher," Lucy wrote.
She said that cash donated would go directly to Lisa, while additional funds that weren't needed would be donated to the Bravehearts charity, which had "been incredibly supportive" to the family during Christopher's illness.
Before his diagnosis, Lucy said Christopher had been "a healthy, fit, normal 17-year-old".
What is heart failure?
Heart failure means that the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly, usually because it has become too weak or stiff.
It doesn't mean your heart has stopped working - instead, it needs support to work better, according NHS guidance.
It can occur at any age, but is most common in older people.
The main symptoms include:
- Breathlessness after activity or at rest
- Feeling tired most of the time and finding exercise exhausting
- Feeling lightheaded or fainting
- Swollen ankles and legs
Like in Christopher's case, some people also experience symptoms like a persistent cough.
They might also have a fast heart rate and feel dizzy.
The NHS advises you see a GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure.
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But you should call an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E if your symptoms come on suddenly or are very severe.