What are the symptoms of congenital heart disease?
Symptoms can vary depending on how serious the condition is, but some may include:
- Breathing difficulties
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Poor growth in babies and children
- Pale or blue-tinted skin, especially around the lips and fingertips
- Rapid heartbeat
What causes congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart disease happens when there are changes in the heart’s development before birth. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but factors that may play a role include:
- Genetics, meaning it can run in families
- Certain infections during pregnancy, like rubella
- Alcohol or drug use during pregnancy
- Diabetes or obesity in the mother during pregnancy
How common is congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart disease is relatively common, affecting around 1 in every 100 births. This means many babies are born with some type of heart defect.
Who is more likely to get congenital heart disease?
Some factors can increase the risk of congenital heart disease, including:
- Having a family history of heart problems
- Being born to mothers who had certain health issues during pregnancy
- The presence of other birth defects
How can I treat congenital heart disease?
Treatment for congenital heart disease depends on the type and severity of the condition. Options may include:
- Regular check-ups and monitoring
- Medication to help manage symptoms
- Medical procedures or surgery to repair heart problems
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How to live with congenital heart disease?
Living with congenital heart disease can be managed with the right care, including:
- Following a treatment plan from healthcare providers
- Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight
- Getting regular exercise as advised by a doctor
- Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol
What’s the outlook for congenital heart disease?
The outlook for people with congenital heart disease continues to improve due to advances in medical care. Many people lead healthy and active lives, especially with surgery or regular treatment.
Final thoughts
Congenital heart disease is a condition that can vary widely among individuals. If you have concerns about your heart health or that of a loved one, it’s important to speak to a GP or healthcare provider.
