Congenital Heart Defects (CHD)

How Do Congenital Heart Defects Affect Children?

CHDs can change how the heart works, and the effects depend on the type of defect. Here’s how they may affect your child:

• Blood Flow Problems: Blood may not flow properly through the heart, leading to low oxygen levels in the body.
• Extra Work for the Heart: The heart may have to work harder, which can make the heart muscle thicker over time.
• Unusual Heartbeat (Arrhythmias): Heart structure changes can cause abnormal heart rhythms.
• Growth and Development Delays: Some babies with CHD may grow more slowly or have trouble gaining weight.

What Causes Congenital Heart Defects?

CHDs can happen for different reasons. Here are some of the main causes and risk factors:

• Genetic Factors: Conditions like Down syndrome or Turner syndrome increase the chance of CHD.
• Family History: If a parent or sibling has CHD, the risk for your baby may be higher.
• Health Conditions During Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes or viral infections like rubella can increase the risk.
  
• Medications and Substances: Certain medications, drugs, and alcohol used during pregnancy can affect the baby's heart development.
• Mother's Age and Health: Older mothers or mothers with poor nutrition during pregnancy may have a higher chance of having a baby with CHD.

Signs and Symptoms of Congenital Heart Defects

CHD symptoms may appear right after birth or as your child grows. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Bluish Skin or Lips (Cyanosis): Caused by low oxygen in the blood.
• Fast or Labored Breathing: This may be more noticeable when feeding or playing.
• Poor Feeding and Weight Gain: Babies with CHD may struggle to eat and grow.
• Tiredness: Children may tire quickly during play or daily activities.
• Heart Murmur: An unusual sound heard when a doctor listens to the heart.
• Swelling: Puffiness in the legs, belly, or around the eyes.

If you see any of these signs, speak to your child’s doctor for an evaluation.

Types of Congenital Heart Defects

CHDs come in different forms. Some of the most common types are:

• Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): A hole between the heart's upper chambers.
• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): A hole between the heart's lower chambers.
• Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF): A combination of four heart problems that affect blood flow and oxygen levels.
• Coarctation of the Aorta: A narrowing of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the body.
• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): A connection between two blood vessels that should close after birth but stay open.
• Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA): The two main arteries leaving the heart are switched.

How Are Congenital Heart Defects Diagnosed?

CHDs are often found before birth or shortly after. Here’s how they are diagnosed:

• During Pregnancy: An ultrasound or foetal echocardiogram can detect heart defects before birth.
• After Birth: Doctors may hear a heart murmur or notice symptoms like cyanosis or rapid breathing.

Tests for Diagnosis:

• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart's electrical signals to find irregular heartbeats.
• Pulse Oximetry: Measures oxygen levels in the blood using a small sensor on the baby’s toe or finger.
• Chest X-ray: Shows the size and shape of the heart.
  
• Cardiac MRI: Provides a detailed picture of the heart

How Are Congenital Heart Defects Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the defect. Options include:

• Monitoring: Some small defects, like small ASDs or VSDs, may close on their own and only need regular checkups.
• Medications: Drugs may help the heart pump better, control heart rhythm, or remove extra bodily fluid.
• Catheter-Based Procedures: Small devices can be placed through a thin tube to close holes in the heart or widen narrow valves.
• Surgery: For more complex defects, open-heart surgery may be needed to repair the heart.

Can Congenital Heart Defects Be Prevented?

While not all CHDs can be prevented, parents can reduce the risk by:

• Get Prenatal Care: Visit your doctor regularly to monitor your baby’s development.
• Stay Healthy: Manage chronic health issues like diabetes and maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid Harmful Substances: Stay away from alcohol, drugs, and certain medications during pregnancy.
• Take Prenatal Vitamins: Folic acid can help prevent some types of birth defects.
• Get Vaccinated: Ensure you’re protected from infections like rubella before pregnancy.

Living with a Congenital Heart Defect

Many children with CHD live healthy, active lives. Here’s how parents can support their child:

• Attend Regular Checkups: Your child may need lifelong follow-ups with a heart specialist.
• Support Daily Activities: Encourage safe play and exercise. Your child’s doctor can advise on what’s appropriate.
• Watch for Changes: Look for symptoms like tiredness, rapid breathing, or bluish skin and contact your doctor if you’re concerned.
• Emotional Support: Help your child understand their condition age-appropriately and encourage them to feel confident and supported.

With early diagnosis and proper care, most children with CHD can lead happy, active lives. If you have questions, talk to your child’s doctor or heart specialist.