Definition: Abnormalities of the heart or conduction system that occur at birth.
1. What is wrong with my baby’s heart, and what problems does the defect cause?
A congenital heart defect is a birth defect of the heart. Many different types of defects exist. The most common type of defect is a hole in either the upper or lower wall of the heart. Both of these defects result in an excess amount of blood flow to the lungs. Other defects include abnormalities with the heart valves, resulting in the heart muscle having to work harder than normal to pump blood to the lungs or body.
2. Is the condition potentially dangerous?
Many congenital heart defects are minor and present no significant risk whatsoever to the child. However, some types of defects can be dangerous or even life threatening.
3. What tests are needed to further define the condition?
The most common test is an echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to visualize the structures of the heart. In almost all cases, a clear diagnosis can be made based on the findings of an echocardiogram. Other tests that are often performed include pulse oximetry (checking the oxygen level in the blood), electrocardiography (assessing the heart’s electricity), and a chest X ray to visualize both the heart and lungs.
4. Will my baby need surgery, and is the condition correctable?
The majority of congenital heart defects are minor in nature and require no specific treatment whatsoever. More serious defects may require surgery. Fortunately, in this day and age almost all congenital heart defects are correctable with surgery and have excellent outcomes.
5. Will any heart medicines be needed to treat this problem?
Most minor congenital heart defects do not require any medications whatsoever. More significant defects may require medications. Typically, medicine is used either to improve the pumping function of the heart or to relieve the lungs of any excess fluid.
6. Do we need to see a pediatric cardiologist and, if so, when?
Your pediatrician will determine whether it is necessary to see a pediatric cardiologist. Some types of minor congenital heart disease may not require a referral to a specialist. However, if a more significant heart defect is suspected, usually a referral is made at that time.
7. Will my baby become blue (cyanotic) from this condition?
Certain types of heart defects result in a blue appearance to the skin, termed cyanosis. This blue appearance results from an inadequate amount of oxygen in the blood, usually due to the blood failing to pass from the heart to the lungs. Blood with a normal amount of oxygen has a red or pink appearance to it, but blood lacking oxygen is blue. In general, heart defects resulting in cyanosis are fairly unusual and are usually noticed at or shortly after birth.
8. After I leave the hospital, what danger signs do I look for that would indicate that my baby is having a problem related to this condition?
Rapid breathing is one sign that might indicate a potential heart problem in a baby. This is usually caused by excessive blood flow to the lungs, although occasionally it may be due to a lower than normal oxygen level in the bloodstream. Other signs that might indicate a potential heart problem in a baby would include unusual color changes, such as a bluish or pale appearance to the skin, poor appetite, or unusual irritability.
9. Do I need to limit my baby’s activities in any way after we go home?
Most babies diagnosed with heart problems do not need any limitation on their activities whatsoever. However, check with your doctor as the recommendation may vary based on the seriousness of your child’s heart condition.
10. After discharge from the hospital, when do you wish to see my baby again concerning this condition?
Usually, follow-up will be determined by the type of heart condition that your baby has been diagnosed with. Minor heart defects may only require reassessment at routine visits. More significant heart conditions may require more frequent checkups.
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