CHD

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is a term used to describe a range of birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart. It is the most common type of birth defect, affecting millions of babies worldwide. CHD can involve the interior walls of the heart, the heart valves, or the arteries and veins that carry blood to the heart or the body. The severity of CHD can vary greatly from simple problems such as small holes in the heart that do not require treatment to complex abnormalities that require medical or surgical treatment soon after birth.

Causes

The exact causes of Congenital Heart Disease are often unknown. However, several factors are believed to increase the risk of a baby developing CHD. These include genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, maternal diabetes, rubella (German measles) infection during pregnancy, and the use of certain medications or drugs during pregnancy. Additionally, smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of a baby developing CHD.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CHD can vary significantly depending on the type and severity of the defect. Some babies have no symptoms at all, while others may have rapid breathing, fatigue, poor blood circulation, or a blue tint to the skin, lips, and fingernails (known as cyanosis). Severe forms of CHD can lead to life-threatening complications such as heart failure.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease can be made before birth, shortly after birth, or even during childhood. Prenatal diagnosis includes ultrasound scans that can detect heart defects in the fetus. After birth, doctors may use physical examinations, echocardiography, chest X-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECG) to diagnose CHD.

Treatment

Treatment for CHD depends on the type and severity of the defect. Some mild defects may not require any treatment or may simply be monitored as the child grows. More severe defects often require medication, cardiac catheterization, or surgery. In some cases, multiple surgeries are needed over a period of years.

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with Congenital Heart Disease has improved significantly over the past few decades. Advances in medical and surgical treatments have enabled many individuals with CHD to live into adulthood. However, people with CHD may require lifelong medical care and might have restrictions on their activity levels or other health complications.

See also

• Heart
• Pediatric cardiology
• Cardiac surgery