What is a congenital heart defect?

A congenital heart defect is a problem in the structure of the heart that is present at birth [1]. These defects occur when the fetus's heart does not develop normally during pregnancy. Congenital heart defects are among the most common types of birth defects [1]. These defects can affect how the heart pumps blood, which may lead to blood flowing too slowly, in the wrong direction, or being completely blocked [1].

Common Types of Congenital Heart Defects

There are many types of congenital heart defects that vary in severity, and they may affect one or more parts of the heart. Common types include:

• Septal defects (a hole in the heart): These are holes in the wall separating the right and left sides of the heart [1].
• Heart valve defects: Problems affecting the valves that control blood flow through the heart [1]. These valves may be too narrow (stenosis) or may not close properly (regurgitation).
• Defects in large blood vessels: This includes issues with the major arteries and veins that carry blood to and from the heart [1].

Severity and Long-Term Impact

Congenital heart defects range from very mild problems that may not require treatment at all, to serious, life-threatening conditions present at birth [1]. Symptoms of mild defects may not appear until childhood or even adulthood [1]. Even if a congenital defect is surgically repaired, many affected individuals are not completely "cured" and may require lifelong follow-up care [2]. Other health problems can develop over time in people living with congenital heart defects [2].

Causes of Congenital Heart Defects

In many cases, researchers do not know the exact cause of congenital heart defects [1]. However, it is known that changes in a child's genes can sometimes cause a heart defect [1]. These altered genes may be inherited from parents, or the changes may occur during pregnancy [1]. There are also factors that may increase the risk of a child having a congenital heart defect, such as certain maternal health conditions before and during pregnancy, such as diabetes or rubella (German measles) during the first trimester [1]. Exposure to certain substances during pregnancy, such as smoking or certain medications, may also increase the risk [1].

Importance of Ongoing Follow-up

All children and adults with congenital heart defects require regular follow-up care from a specialized cardiologist throughout their lives, even if the defect has been repaired [1]. This follow-up aims to ensure the heart continues to function as well as possible and to manage any potential complications that may arise with age. You can read more about this topic in our article on Congenital heart defects in adults: The importance of ongoing follow-up (Arabic).

When to Seek Emergency Care?

Although congenital heart defects do not cause pain, some symptoms may indicate a problem that requires immediate medical attention [1]. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical help:

• Cyanosis: A bluish tint to the skin, lips, or fingernails, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood [1].
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: Abnormally rapid or labored breathing [1].
• Severe fatigue: Unusual tiredness or extreme exhaustion after minimal exertion.

Medical references

• Congenital Heart Defects
• About Congenital Heart Defects