Congenital heart defects refer to structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. These conditions can affect the heart's valves, chambers, or blood vessels, potentially impacting the heart's ability to function properly. In this article, we will discuss five common childhood heart defects that every parent should be aware of. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and long-term implications can help parents navigate their child's health journey more effectively.
What is a congenital cardiac defect?
When there is an issue with the structure of the heart, it is referred to as a congenital heart defect. It happens when the heart or blood arteries don't correctly develop before birth.
Congenital cardiac abnormalities can be of different types. They may affect the heart's blood channels, valves, or walls. While certain problems are linked to certain hereditary diseases, the majority of newborns' causes are unclear.
It's crucial to understand the potential effects of cardiac anomalies on your child since 1% of the entire newborns are born with it.
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
Ventricular Septal Defect, or VSD, is one of the most prevalent congenital cardiac disorders. It occurs when the septum, a wall that separates the heart's two bottom chambers (ventricles), develops an irregular opening. Depending on the extent of the abnormality, the symptoms may vary, but typical warning signs include:
- Slow weight gain
- Fast breathing
- Exhaustion and recurring respiratory infections
Treatment options for VSD can range from cautious waiting to surgical intervention with the goal of closing the hole and allowing the heart to function efficiently.
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
An abnormal opening in the septum, which divides the two top chambers of the heart (atria), is referred to as an atrial septal defect (ASD). As a result of this abnormality, oxygen-rich blood might move from the left atrium to the right atrium, potentially straining the heart and lowering its effectiveness. This congenital heart disease’s symptoms are-
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Exhaustion
- Shortness of breath
Medication, cardiac catheterization, surgery to plug the hole, or a combination of these methods may all be used to treat ASD.
Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
A ventricular septal defect, pulmonary valve stenosis, an overriding aorta, and right ventricular hypertrophy combine to form the complicated congenital heart defect known as tetralogy of Fallot. Children with TOF may experience symptoms like:
- Having difficulty in breathing
- Cyanosis (blue-tinted skin)
- Breathing problems
- Fainting spells
Surgery is frequently used as part of a treatment plan to address abnormalities and improve heart performance.
Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)
A transposition of the great arteries is a condition in which the pulmonary artery and aorta, the two major arteries leaving the heart, are in the wrong places. As a result, blood that is oxygen-rich is pumped back to the lungs while blood that is oxygen-poor is circulated throughout the body. Children with TGA may exhibit symptoms like:
- Cyanosis soon after birth
- Experience breathing problems
- Exhibit poor eating
An arterial switch, a surgical operation that restores normal blood flow, is frequently used as treatment for TGA.
Also Read – Difference Between a Heart Attack and a Cardiac Arrest?
Coarctation of the Aorta
The term “coarctation of the aorta” describes a constriction or narrowing of the aorta, the major artery that supplies the body with blood from the heart. This constriction can restrict blood flow and put more strain on the heart. The key symptoms are-
- Leg cramps
- High blood pressure
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulties exercising
Balloon angioplasty or surgery to treat the constriction and enhance blood flow are two treatment options for coarctation of the aorta.
Congenital heart conditions necessitate prompt diagnosis, suitable care, and continued observation. To maximise treatment results and reduce long-term problems, early detection and management are essential. Consult a paediatric cardiologist if you think your kid might have a congenital heart problem, so they can accurately diagnose the condition and walk you through your treatment choices. With advancements in medical care, many children with congenital heart defects go on to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
