Congenital Heart Disease: Symptoms & Treatment

Congenital heart disease, or CHD, is a structural defect in the heart present at birth. It affects how blood flows through the heart and the rest of the body. CHD can vary from mild conditions that require little or no treatment to more severe cases that need surgery or ongoing medical care.

While some congenital heart diseases are diagnosed at birth or in childhood, others may not be discovered until adulthood. Advancements in medical technology have significantly improved survival rates and treatment outcomes for those with CHD.

Overview

Congenital heart disease includes a wide range of heart abnormalities that develop as the heart forms in the womb. Usually the defects cause issues with blood flow through the heart by affecting the structure of the chambers of the heart, the heart valves or the blood vessels.

Depending on the type and severity of the defect, symptoms can range from no visible issues to life-threatening conditions. Symptoms often depend on the type and severity of the defect and can include:

Failure to thrive
Shortness of breath
Fatigue, especially during physical activities
Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or areas around the eyes
Rapid heartbeat or arrhythmias
Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin due to low oxygen levels)

CHD is typically divided into two categories:

Cyanotic CHD: These defects decrease oxygen in the blood, leading to cyanosis.
Acyanotic CHD: These do not reduce oxygen levels in the blood but can still affect heart function.

Types of Congenital Heart Disease

There are many types of CHD, and while this article won't delve into each in detail, it's essential to know what they are:

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Tetralogy of Fallot
Transposition of the Great Arteries
Coarctation of the Aorta
Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
Aortic Valve Stenosis
Tricuspid Atresia
Ebstein's Anomaly
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome
Double Outlet Right Ventricle
Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)
Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (PAPVR)
Pulmonary Atresia
Interrupted Aortic Arch
Truncus Arteriosus
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Subaortic Stenosis
Supraaortic stenosis
Congenital Mitral Valve Stenosis
Congenital Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Single Ventricle
Dextrocardia with or without abnormal intracardiac and extrtacardiac connections
Cor Triatriatum
Persistent Truncus Arteriosus

Diagnosis and Tests

In adults, a congenital heart defect may be discovered incidentally during these tests for other health issues, especially if it had gone undetected during childhood. Diagnosing CHD involves several tests and imaging technologies to determine the type and severity of the defect. Some commonly used tests include:

Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Chest X-ray
Echocardiogram
CT angiography
Cardiac MRI
Cardiac catheterization

Treatment Options

Treatment for CHD varies widely based on the type and severity of the condition. Some patients may not need immediate intervention, while others require surgery, medication, or ongoing management. Treatment options include:

Medication: For many people with CHD, medicine plays an essential role in managing symptoms and preventing complications. These medications may include:
Diuretics: Reduces fluid buildup in the body
Beta-blockers: Helps regulate heart rhythm
ACE inhibitors: Lower downs blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart
Anticoagulants: Prevents blood clots
Surgical Procedures:
Extracardiac open surgery : Correction/palliation of cardiac defects by working on the great vessels near the heart, without entering the heart chambers.
Open-heart surgery: Many heart defects require surgical correction, particularly if they severely impair blood flow or oxygenation.
Catheter-based interventions: These are minimally invasive procedures that can be used to repair certain heart defects without the need for open-heart surgery.
Heart/Heart-Lung transplantation : Severe forms of CHD or advanced damage to the lungs may not be amenable to surgical repair or catheter based intervention and such cases need organ transplantation.
Lifestyle Adjustments: In addition to medical treatments, it is usually advised to make lifestyle changes such as maintaining a heart-healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and engaging in safe levels of physical activity to support heart function.

Medication and Aftercare

For many patients, managing CHD involves a blend of medications to manage symptoms and reduce complications. Medicines can also help reduce the risk of arrhythmias or heart failure. Depending on the condition, medication management might be a long-term commitment. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor and adjust medications as needed.

Aftercare is critical for those living with CHD. Regular follow-up appointments are essential, even for those who underwent corrective surgery or other interventions. Monitoring may include periodic echocardiograms, stress tests, and blood work to ensure the heart functions properly. Patients should also watch for signs of worsening symptoms, such as increased fatigue, swelling, or shortness of breath, and report them to their healthcare provider immediately.

Living with CHD often requires ongoing care, even after successful treatment. Many people with CHD live entire, active lives, but they need to be vigilant about their heart health and work with their doctors to manage their condition over time.

Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Heart Health Across Gujarat

At Sterling Hospital, we provide you with the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to a healthier heart. If you are looking for the best cardiovascular surgeons in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, or Gandhidham, we've got you. With considerable years of experience, we have built a team of the best cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons in these regions to provide you with premium treatment and the best results. Contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a healthier heart.