Congenital Heart Defects in Children


 

Congenital heartdefects arise when there is a problem with the structure of the heart of a baby since birth. While some heart defects don't need any kind of treatment, other complex heart defects require medical assistance that includes surgery. When you know about the heart condition your child is suffering from, you will be able to make informed decisions regarding their treatment.

 

Types of Congenital Heart Defects

 

●       Congenital mitral valve anomalies

●       Bicuspid aortic valve

●       Patent ductus arteriosus

●       Pulmonary valve stenosis

●       Tricuspid atresia

●       Tetralogy of Fallot

●       Ventricular septal defects

 

Symptoms of CHD

 

The symptoms of CHD are first noticed in the initial months of a baby's life or immediately after the child is born. These signs and symptoms may be:

 

  1. Rapid breathing
  2. Shortness of breath
  3. Easily getting tired after minimal physical activity
  4. Lips and tongue that are pale gray or blue
  5. Fainting after or during exercise
  6. Cyanosis of fingernails
  7. Poor weight gain of the baby

 

Doctor visit

 

CHD is usually diagnosed easily when a child is born or sometimes, even before childbirth. Urgent medical attention can help resolve the problem to a greater extent. When you see the doctor, he or she will thoroughly examine your baby and evaluate the condition. This will help them determine if your child is suffering from Congenital Heart Defect or any other medical condition.

 

Risk factors of Congenital Heart Defects

 

A majority of congenital heart defects develop when the heart of the baby is developing; when the baby is in the womb. In most cases, the causes of these Congenital Heart Defects are unknown. However, there are some risk factors associated with these Congenital Heart Defects mentioned below.

 

●       Diabetes

●       Alcohol consumption during pregnancy by the mother

●       German measles or rubella

●       Family history or genetic factor

●       Medications

●       Smoking

 

Complications

 

There are some complications arising with Congenital Heart Defects that you must be aware of.

 

  1. Heart infections
  2. Developmental delays or slower development and growth of the baby
  3. Mental health disorders
  4. Congestive heart failure
  5. Stroke
  6. Arrhythmia or irregular heart rhythm

 

Prevention

 

It is difficult to prevent the occurrence of a Congenital Heart Defect because the exact cause is unknown. However, a few steps can help reduce the risks associated with Congenital Heart Defects. You may undergo screening and genetic testing during pregnancy to know your risk of giving birth to a child with CHD.

 

Visit Sohana Hospital for proper guidance on prenatal care and to avoid CHD in your baby. Our doctors use their knowledge to make your pregnancy a safer one.

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