Description: Squatting occurs in children with certain congenital heart disease.  Typically, the child will interrupt his/her play and squat for a few seconds, then resume play.

Some causes related to cardiovascular disease:  Squatting increases blood return to the right side of the heart.  In certain congenital heart lesions, squatting can transiently improve the function of the heart and relieve impending symptoms.

Significance:  Children who are noted to squat should be seen by a physician to rule out congenital heart disease.

Links related to congenital heart disease