CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES (CHDS) ARE BIRTH DEFECTS THAT AFFECT THE HEART'S STRUCTURE OR FUNCTION.
They are the most common type of birth defect, affecting about 1 in every 100 babies born in the United States. The prevalence of CHDs varies from country to country, but they are more common in developing countries. CHDs can range from mild to severe, and some can be life-threatening.
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There are many different types of CHDs, but some of the most common include:
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Atrial septal defect (ASD): A hole in the wall between the heart's two upper chambers (atria).
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Ventricular septal defect (VSD): A hole in the wall between the heart's two lower chambers (ventricles).
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Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): A small blood vessel that fails to close after birth.
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Coarctation of the aorta: A narrowing of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood away from the heart.
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Tetralogy of Fallot: A combination of four heart defects that can cause cyanosis (blueness of the skin).
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Transposition of the great arteries: The two main arteries of the heart are switched.
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Hypoplastic left heart syndrome: The left side of the heart is underdeveloped.
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Tricuspid atresia: The tricuspid valve, which allows blood to flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle, is missing or does not function properly.
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Pulmonary atresia: The pulmonary valve, which allows blood to flow from the right ventricle to the lungs, is missing or does not function properly.
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Single ventricle: A defect in which only one of the heart's two ventricles is able to pump blood effectively.
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Ebstein's anomaly: A defect in which the tricuspid valve is displaced downward into the right ventricle.
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Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD): A condition in which the heart muscle of the right ventricle is replaced with fatty or fibrous tissue.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it includes some of the most common and serious CHDs. The severity of a CHD can vary greatly, and some defects may not cause any symptoms at all. Others may require surgery or other treatment early in life. If you or your child has been diagnosed with a CHD, it is important to see a cardiologist who specializes in CHDs. They will be able to provide you with the best possible care and treatment options.