Congenital heart disease is a term used to describe heart defects that develop in utero. These defects can range from simple abnormalities that cause no symptoms to complex defects that can become life-threatening. The most common defects affect blood flow through the heart.
Congenital heart defects that are identified and treated at birth or during childhood can reappear later into adulthood. Existing problems may have worsened, the repair may not have fully resolved the issue, or complications from earlier surgeries have begun to form.
Congenital heart defects begin in the womb and can develop for a variety of reasons, both hereditary and environmental, but identifying a specific cause is difficult. Risk factors may include genetic predisposition, certain medications the mother takes, and mothers smoking while pregnant.
Some congenital heart defects present no signs or symptoms, or may not become apparent until well into adulthood. They can also recur even after previous treatment. Symptoms of congenital heart disease in adults can include:
If you were diagnosed with or treated for a congenital heart defect in early childhood, take extra care to monitor any worsening symptoms. If you were not diagnosed with one but are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical help.
Though many congenital heart defects can be identified before birth, they often require life-long care and monitoring. If left untreated, they can develop into arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or heart infection, and increase your risk of stroke.
Your doctor will conduct a variety of tests to determine the exact nature of your heart defect. Depending on the severity and risk, treatment can range anywhere from watchful waiting and medication to implantable heart devices, open-heart surgery, and, in extreme cases, a heart transplant.
Even if you feel you have outgrown or resolved a congenital heart defect, follow-up care and routine exams are still vitally important because you are still at risk for developing complications. Be sure to disclose any previous conditions or defects to all of your medical providers to minimize the risk of exacerbating any problems.
CardioVascular Health Clinic boasts a dedicated team of qualified specialists whose sole focus is your heart’s health. With decades of combined experience, state-of-the-art technology, and a comprehensive approach to patient care, our physicians are able to offer Oklahomans unparalleled cardiovascular services.
Congenital heart disease can hide in plain sight. If you were diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, or suspect you or a loved one may be suffering from one, call CardioVascular Health Clinic today at (405) 701-9880 to schedule an appointment or visit our website.
