Overview
Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a range of structural heart defects present from birth. These defects affect the way blood flows through the heart and can vary from simple conditions with no symptoms to complex problems causing life-threatening complications.
Symptoms
Rapid breathing Blue tinge to the skin, lips, or fingernails (cyanosis) Fatigue during feeding in infants Poor weight gain Heart murmurs Shortness of breath
Causes
Genetic mutations Chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome) Maternal illnesses during pregnancy (e.g., rubella, diabetes) Exposure to certain medications or substances during pregnancy
Diagnosis
Prenatal ultrasound or fetal echocardiogram Postnatal echocardiogram, ECG, or chest X-ray Pulse oximetry to check oxygen levels
Treatment
Observation for minor defects that may close naturally Medications to help heart function Surgical repair or catheter-based procedures for severe defects Ongoing cardiac follow-up
Complications
Heart failure Arrhythmias Stroke Infective endocarditis
Prevention
Prenatal care and avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy Maternal vaccination against rubella Managing maternal health conditions