Work in progress. This guide is being written and reviewed.

Exercise tolerance and school-age life

Educational, not medical advice. If you have an urgent concern, call your physician or 911.

Module 5 — Long-Term Outcomes · Episode 21

The encouraging picture

Many children who had CDH attend school, play, and participate in activities much like their peers. For those who had milder disease, day-to-day life is often typical.

Where differences can show

Children who had severe CDH may have somewhat reduced exercise tolerance or may tire more easily, and some have ongoing breathing, feeding, or developmental needs that benefit from support. These vary widely from child to child.

Supporting the whole child

Beyond the lungs, attention to development, learning, hearing, and emotional wellbeing helps children thrive. Schools and families can usually accommodate any extra needs with planning.

The long view

CDH is the start of a story, not the whole of it. With follow-up and support, the trajectory for many children is toward a full and active life.


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