Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a group of heart defects present at birth that affect the structure or function of the heart. These conditions can range from mild to severe, impacting a child’s ability to circulate blood efficiently throughout the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing CHD and helping children live healthy lives. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide comprehensive care for children with congenital heart disease, working closely with specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our team serves families across Atlanta from our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur.
What Is Congenital Heart Disease?
Congenital heart disease occurs when there is a structural problem in the heart or its blood vessels. These defects develop early in pregnancy and can affect how the heart pumps blood, how oxygen-rich blood circulates through the body, or how well the heart functions overall. CHD may be detected before birth, shortly after birth, or later in childhood, depending on the severity of the condition.
There are several types of congenital heart defects, ranging from simple issues that may not require treatment to complex conditions that need immediate medical intervention or surgery.
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Types of Congenital Heart Disease in Children
Congenital heart defects are classified into several categories based on the specific problem affecting the heart’s structure. Common types of congenital heart disease include:
Septal Defects
Septal defects are holes in the wall (septum) that separates the heart’s chambers. These defects can occur between the atria (atrial septal defect) or between the ventricles (ventricular septal defect). Small septal defects may close on their own, while larger ones may require surgery.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
PDA occurs when the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta in a fetus, fails to close after birth. This allows oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, which can strain the heart and lungs.
Tetralogy of Fallot
A more complex congenital heart defect, Tetralogy of Fallot consists of four related heart abnormalities: a ventricular septal defect, pulmonary stenosis (narrowing of the pulmonary valve), right ventricular hypertrophy (thickened heart muscle), and an overriding aorta. This condition often requires surgical repair in infancy.
Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)
In TGA, the two main arteries that carry blood from the heart (the aorta and the pulmonary artery) are reversed, causing oxygen-poor blood to be pumped to the body while oxygen-rich blood is circulated back to the lungs. This condition requires immediate surgical correction after birth.
Coarctation of the Aorta
This condition involves a narrowing of the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Coarctation of the aorta can lead to high blood pressure and may require surgery or a catheter-based procedure to repair.
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)
HLHS is a rare and severe form of CHD where the left side of the heart is underdeveloped, making it difficult for the heart to pump oxygen-rich blood to the body. Treatment for HLHS often involves multiple surgeries or, in some cases, a heart transplant.
Symptoms of Congenital Heart Disease
The symptoms of congenital heart disease can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the defect. Some children with mild heart defects may not exhibit any symptoms, while others with more complex conditions may show signs shortly after birth. Common symptoms of CHD in children include:
Cyanosis (Bluish Tint to the Skin, Lips, or Nails)
Cyanosis occurs when there is not enough oxygen in the blood, often a sign of severe heart defects that prevent proper oxygenation.
Rapid Breathing or Difficulty Breathing
Heart defects can cause breathing problems, especially during feeding or physical activity, as the heart struggles to pump oxygen-rich blood efficiently.
Fatigue or Weakness
Children with congenital heart disease may tire easily or appear unusually fatigued during activities or feeding due to poor circulation or a weakened heart.
Poor Weight Gain
Infants with CHD may have difficulty feeding and gaining weight, as their bodies use more energy to maintain proper heart and lung function.
Heart Murmurs
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard during a heartbeat, often caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart. While not all heart murmurs indicate CHD, they can be a sign of an underlying defect.
In more severe cases, symptoms may appear immediately after birth and require urgent medical care.
Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease is often diagnosed through prenatal screening or soon after birth during a physical examination. In some cases, CHD may not be detected until later in childhood if symptoms are mild or delayed. Several diagnostic tools are used to evaluate heart defects:
Fetal Echocardiogram
A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound used to examine the baby’s heart during pregnancy. This test can detect certain congenital heart defects before birth.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart, helping doctors identify structural defects, assess heart function, and monitor blood flow.
Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG)
An EKG measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormal heart rhythms or other issues related to heart function.
Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray can provide images of the heart and lungs, helping to identify an enlarged heart, fluid buildup, or other abnormalities.
Pulse Oximetry
This test measures the oxygen levels in the blood and can detect low oxygen saturation, which is common in babies with severe heart defects.
Cardiac Catheterization
In some cases, cardiac catheterization may be performed to examine the heart more closely. A thin tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to evaluate blood flow and pressure, as well as to perform certain procedures.
Treatment for Congenital Heart Disease
The treatment for congenital heart disease depends on the type and severity of the defect. Some mild heart defects may not require treatment, while others may need medical management, surgery, or long-term monitoring. Treatment options for congenital heart disease include:
Medications
Medications may be prescribed to help the heart work more efficiently, reduce symptoms, or prevent complications. Common medications include diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, beta-blockers to regulate heart function, and anticoagulants to prevent blood clots.
Surgical Repair
Many congenital heart defects, especially complex ones, require surgery to correct the problem. Surgical procedures can range from closing holes in the heart to reconstructing or replacing defective valves or arteries. These surgeries are often performed in infancy, though some may be delayed until later in childhood.
Catheter-Based Procedures
For certain types of heart defects, a less invasive procedure known as cardiac catheterization may be used to repair the defect. During this procedure, a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided to the heart to close holes, widen narrow blood vessels, or place stents.
Heart Transplant
In severe cases where the heart is unable to function properly despite treatment, a heart transplant may be recommended. This is typically reserved for children with complex heart defects like hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Long-Term Outlook for Children with Congenital Heart Disease
With advancements in medical care and surgical techniques, many children with congenital heart disease can lead active, healthy lives. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor heart function, manage any ongoing symptoms, and prevent complications. Some children may need additional surgeries or interventions as they grow, while others may only require routine monitoring.
At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we work closely with pediatric cardiologists to ensure that children with congenital heart disease receive the specialized care they need at every stage of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Congenital Heart Disease
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Some types of congenital heart defects can be surgically repaired, while others may require lifelong management. Many children with CHD can lead healthy lives with proper treatment and follow-up care.
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While most cases of CHD occur sporadically, certain genetic conditions or family histories may increase the risk of a baby being born with a heart defect.
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Many children with CHD can participate in physical activities, though restrictions may apply depending on the severity of the condition. Your pediatrician and cardiologist will provide guidance on safe levels of activity.
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The risk of having another child with CHD varies depending on the underlying cause of the condition. If one child has CHD, there may be a slightly higher chance of future siblings being affected. Genetic counseling may be recommended for families with a history of CHD.
Schedule an Appointment for Congenital Heart Disease Care in Atlanta
If your child has been diagnosed with congenital heart disease or you have concerns about their heart health, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine to schedule an appointment. Our team provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for children with CHD at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur.