Summary about Disease
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. These defects can affect the heart's walls, valves, or blood vessels, disrupting the normal flow of blood through the heart and to the rest of the body. CHDs range in severity from mild defects that may not require treatment to severe defects that are life-threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms of congenital heart defects vary depending on the type and severity of the defect. Some common symptoms include:
Shortness of breath
Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin, lips, and nails)
Fatigue
Poor feeding (in infants)
Poor weight gain
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen
Rapid heart rate
Heart murmur
Causes
The exact cause of most congenital heart defects is unknown. However, several factors are believed to play a role, including:
Genetic factors: Some CHDs are caused by gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities.
Environmental factors: Exposure to certain substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, drugs, or certain medications, can increase the risk of CHDs.
Maternal infections: Certain infections during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles), can also increase the risk.
Maternal conditions: Conditions like diabetes or lupus in the mother can increase the risk.
Family history: A family history of CHDs can increase the risk.
Medicine Used
Medications used to manage congenital heart defects depend on the specific defect and the individual's condition. Some common medications include:
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup.
Digoxin: To strengthen the heart's contractions.
ACE inhibitors: To relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Beta-blockers: To slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure.
Prostaglandins: To keep certain blood vessels open in newborns with specific defects.
Anticoagulants: To prevent blood clots. Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and specific medication choices are determined by a physician.
Is Communicable
No, congenital heart defects are not communicable. They are structural abnormalities present at birth and are not caused by infectious agents.
Precautions
Since CHDs are present at birth, there are limited precautions to take after the diagnosis. However, for pregnant women, the following may help reduce the risk of CHDs in their offspring:
Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs during pregnancy.
Manage pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes.
Get vaccinated against rubella before pregnancy.
Take prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid.
Genetic counseling if there is a family history of CHDs. For individuals with CHD:
Follow all medical advice from their cardiologist and healthcare team
Maintain good hygiene to prevent infection, particularly endocarditis
Take all prescribed medications
Discuss pregnancy plans with the cardiologist for those who want children
How long does an outbreak last?
Congenital heart defects are not caused by infections or other communicable sources. Therefore, there is no outbreak to last. They are present at birth and can either be repaired, medically managed, or may result in a shorter lifespan for the person born with the condition.
How is it diagnosed?
Congenital heart defects can be diagnosed during pregnancy, shortly after birth, or later in life. Diagnostic methods include:
Prenatal ultrasound: Can detect some heart defects before birth.
Fetal echocardiogram: A more detailed ultrasound of the fetal heart.
Physical exam: Listening for heart murmurs or other signs of heart problems.
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart.
Chest X-ray: Shows the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
Cardiac catheterization: A procedure to visualize the heart chambers and blood vessels.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Provides detailed images of the heart.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the type and severity of the CHD.
Prenatal: Some severe defects may be detected during prenatal ultrasound.
Newborn/Infancy: Symptoms like cyanosis, poor feeding, and rapid breathing may be apparent soon after birth.
Childhood: Milder defects may not be diagnosed until childhood, presenting with fatigue, shortness of breath during exercise, or a heart murmur detected during a routine check-up.
Adulthood: Some defects might remain undetected until adulthood, possibly presenting with arrythmias, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Important Considerations
Lifelong care: Many individuals with CHD require lifelong monitoring and care by a cardiologist.
Endocarditis prevention: Some individuals with CHD are at higher risk of endocarditis (infection of the heart valves) and may need to take antibiotics before certain dental or medical procedures.
Exercise: Exercise recommendations vary depending on the specific defect and should be discussed with a cardiologist.
Pregnancy: Women with CHD require careful evaluation and management during pregnancy.
Emotional support: Living with CHD can be challenging, and emotional support from family, friends, or support groups can be helpful.