Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) refers to a range of heart defects present at birth. These defects can affect the heart's structure, function, and blood flow patterns. CHD is one of the most common types of birth defects. Here are the key aspects of Congenital Heart Disease:

  1. Types: There are many types of CHD, varying in severity. Common forms include septal defects (like atrial and ventricular septal defects), which are holes in the heart's walls; valve defects, which affect how blood flows through the heart; and complex heart defects, like tetralogy of Fallot, which involve multiple abnormalities.

  2. Causes: The exact cause of most congenital heart defects is unknown. However, several factors may increase the risk, including genetic conditions (like Down syndrome), taking certain medications or alcohol during pregnancy, a viral infection like rubella during pregnancy, and maternal diabetes or obesity.

  3. Symptoms: Symptoms depend on the type and severity of the defect. They can include rapid breathing, fatigue, poor blood circulation, cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin, lips, and fingernails), and poor weight gain in infants. Some mild defects may cause no noticeable symptoms and only be detected during a routine medical checkup.

  4. Diagnosis: CHD can often be detected before birth through prenatal ultrasound. After birth, diagnosis may involve echocardiograms, chest X-rays, pulse oximetry, electrocardiograms (ECG), and cardiac catheterization.

  5. Treatment: Treatment depends on the severity and type of the defect and may include medications, catheter procedures, surgery, and in some cases, heart transplants. Some mild defects may require no treatment or only periodic check-ups.

  6. Prevention: While not all congenital heart defects can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk, such as controlling chronic medical conditions, avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, and ensuring adequate prenatal care.

  7. Prognosis: The outlook for children with CHD varies. Many live healthy lives, though they might require ongoing medical care. Advances in treatment have significantly improved the survival and quality of life for these individuals.

Overall, early detection and advances in treatment have greatly improved the outcomes for individuals with congenital heart disease. Lifelong follow-up care with a cardiologist is often necessary.

Specific Congenital Heart Defects