Congenital Heart Diseases (CHDs) are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. They occur due to improper development of the heart during fetal growth and can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels. CHDs range from mild conditions, such as small septal defects that may close on their own, to complex and life-threatening defects that require surgical intervention.
Common types of CHDs include Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA), and Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the defect and may include difficulty breathing, bluish skin (cyanosis), poor weight gain, and fatigue.
Advancements in medical and surgical treatments have significantly improved the survival and quality of life of individuals with CHDs. Treatment options include medications, catheter-based interventions, and open-heart surgery, with some complex cases requiring multiple procedures over time.
Early diagnosis through fetal echocardiography and newborn screening is crucial for timely management. Many children with CHDs grow into adulthood with proper care, highlighting the importance of lifelong follow-up with specialized cardiologists.
