Heart Disease
Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompasses a variety of heart defects present from birth, affecting the heart’s walls, valves, and blood vessels. While some defects are minor, others require expert medical intervention. At Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital, Dr. Pankaj Harkut offers comprehensive care for all types of CHD. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Harkut ensures that patients receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
Congenital heart disease refers to structural issues with the heart that are present at birth. These defects can range from minor, requiring little to no intervention, to severe, necessitating specialized medical care. Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and treatments of CHD is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
Types of Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart defects are categorised based on the affected heart structures. Here’s a detailed look at various types:
Heart Valve Defects
Heart valve defects impact the valves controlling blood flow through the heart chambers. Common examples include:
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
A hole in the septum, the wall separating the two lower chambers of the heart.
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
The septum, which separates the heart’s two upper chambers, has an opening in this congenital heart defect.
Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Leakage of the mitral valve causing backward blood flow.
Septal Defects
Septal defects involve holes in the septum that separate the heart chambers. Examples are:
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
The septum, which separates the heart’s two upper chambers, has an opening in this congenital heart defect.
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
This heart defect involves a hole in the septum, the wall separating the heart’s two lower chambers (ventricles).
Heart Muscle Defects (Cardiomyopathies)
These defects affect the heart muscle’s pumping efficiency. Notable examples include:
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Thickening of the heart muscle, impeding blood flow.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Enlargement and weakening of the heart chambers.
Cyanotic Heart Defects
These defects affect the heart muscle’s pumping efficiency. Notable examples include:
Tetralogy of Fallot
A combination of four defects restricting blood flow to the lungs.
Transposition of the Great Arteries
Switched major arteries, leading to oxygen-poor blood circulation.
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Symptoms of Congenital Heart Disease
Symptoms of congenital heart disease vary by defect type and severity. Some infants show symptoms immediately, while others may not exhibit signs until later. Common symptoms include:
- Cyanosis (blueish tint to skin, lips, and fingernails)
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Poor feeding and failure to thrive
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
- Heart murmur (abnormal whooshing sound during heartbeat)
Causes of Congenital Heart Disease
While the precise causes of most congenital heart defects remain unclear, certain factors are known to elevate the risk:
Genetic Factors
Family history of congenital heart defects.
Maternal Health Conditions
Diabetes, rubella infection during pregnancy, certain medications.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to toxins or infections during pregnancy.
Prevention of Congenital Heart Disease
While not all congenital heart defects are preventable, taking specific steps during pregnancy can reduce the risk:
Common Symptoms
Get early and regular prenatal care.
Manage pre-existing health conditions like diabetes.
Avoid alcohol, smoking, and illicit drugs during pregnancy
Consult your doctor about medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Get vaccinated against rubella.
Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease
Diagnosing congenital heart disease involves several steps:
Physical Examination: Listening for abnormalities in the heart and lungs.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound providing detailed images of the heart.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity.
Cardiac Catheterization: Measures pressures and oxygen levels in the heart and visualizes structures.
Treatment of Congenital Heart Disease
Treatment varies by defect type and severity. Options include:
Medications
Used to manage symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent complications.
Interventional Cardiac Catheterization
Minimally invasive procedures performed via catheter to repair heart defects without open-heart surgery, such as:Balloon Valvuloplasty: Widening a narrowed valve using a balloon catheter.
Device Closure
Using small devices to close heart wall holes.
Surgery
Open-heart surgery may be necessary to repair or replace valves, close holes, or widen blood vessels.
Heart Transplant
In severe cases where other treatments fail, a heart transplant may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart disease describes a group of conditions where the heart’s structure is abnormal from birth. These defects can involve the heart walls, valves, or blood vessels, impacting blood flow.
How common is congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart disease is one of the most common birth defects, affecting nearly 1% of all live births.
Can congenital heart disease be detected before birth?
Yes, congenital heart disease can often be detected before birth through prenatal ultrasound and fetal echocardiography.
How does congenital heart disease typically affect individuals over their lifespan?
With appropriate treatment and follow-up care, many individuals with congenital heart disease can lead normal, healthy lives. The long-term outcome depends on the type and severity of the defect.
Can lifestyle changes help manage congenital heart disease?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can help manage congenital heart disease and improve overall heart health.
Is pacemaker implantation a major surgery?
Pacemaker implantation is considered a minor surgical procedure, typically performed under local anaesthesia. Patients usually experience a quick recovery and minimal discomfort.