What is Congenital Cardiac Disease?

Congenital cardiac disease means a person is born with a problem in the heart’s structure. These problems are also called congenital heart defects. They can affect how blood flows through the heart and body. In fact, congenital cardiac disease is one of the most common birth defects worldwide. According to the CDC, about 1 in 100 babies in the United States is born with a heart defect. Some defects are mild, while others need early treatment.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of congenital cardiac disease can vary. Some babies show signs right after birth. Others may not have symptoms until later in life. However, knowing the signs of congenital cardiac disease helps families seek help early. Common symptoms include:

Blue or pale skin, lips, or nails (called cyanosis)

Fast or troubled breathing

Poor feeding or slow weight gain in babies

Swelling in the legs, belly, or around the eyes

Getting tired easily, especially during feeding or exercise

Frequent lung infections

Sometimes, mild defects may cause no symptoms. But regular check-ups can help find hidden problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not always know why congenital heart defects happen. Still, some causes and risk factors are known. For example, problems can occur if the heart does not form correctly during early pregnancy. Some risk factors include:

Family history of congenital cardiac disease

Genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome

Mother’s health issues, like diabetes or infections during pregnancy

Use of certain medicines or alcohol during pregnancy

Exposure to harmful substances or chemicals

Even so, many children with congenital heart defects have no known risk factors.

Diagnosis Methods

Early diagnosis of congenital heart disease can save lives. Doctors use several methods to find these defects. For instance, they may notice a heart murmur during a check-up. Common diagnosis methods include:

Physical exam and listening to the heart

Pulse oximetry to check oxygen levels in the blood

Chest X-ray to view the heart and lungs

Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart rhythm

Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to see heart structure

Cardiac MRI or CT scan for detailed images

Sometimes, cardiac catheterization for more information

Because early detection is important, many hospitals screen newborns for heart defects.

Treatment Options

Treatment for congenital cardiac disease depends on the type and severity of the defect. Some mild defects may not need treatment. Others require medicine, procedures, or surgery. Treatment options include:

Medications to help the heart work better or prevent clots

Catheter-based procedures to fix holes or narrow valves without surgery

Open-heart surgery to repair or replace heart parts

Heart transplant in rare, severe cases

With advances in care, most children with congenital heart defects live longer, healthier lives.

Living with Congenital Cardiac Disease

Many people with congenital cardiac disease lead full lives. However, regular care is important. For example, children may need check-ups with a heart doctor (cardiologist). Some may need to limit certain activities. Others may take medicine every day. In addition, support from family, friends, and support groups can help. As children grow, they should learn about their heart condition and how to stay healthy.

Prevention and Early Detection

Not all congenital heart defects can be prevented. Still, some steps may lower the risk. For instance, women planning pregnancy should:

Get regular prenatal care

Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and harmful drugs

Control health conditions like diabetes

Take folic acid as advised by a doctor

Stay up to date on vaccines

Early detection through newborn screening and regular check-ups helps catch problems sooner. This way, children can get the care they need right away.

Consult a cardiologist for personalized advice on congenital cardiac disease.