Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to structural abnormalities in the heart that are present at birth. It is one of the most common birth defects, affecting the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels. CHD can range from mild conditions, such as small septal defects, to severe defects that require immediate medical intervention.
The causes of CHD are multifactorial, including genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome), maternal infections, or environmental factors like exposure to certain medications or toxins during pregnancy.
Common types of CHD include atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and transposition of the great arteries (TGA). Symptoms vary depending on severity but may include cyanosis (bluish skin), difficulty breathing, poor growth, and heart murmurs.
Diagnosis is typically made through echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), chest X-rays, or cardiac MRI. Treatment options depend on the defect’s nature and severity and may involve medications, catheter-based procedures, or open-heart surgery. Advances in medical care have significantly improved survival rates, allowing many individuals with CHD to live healthy lives with appropriate management. Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist are essential for long-term care.