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Congenital Heart Disease in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 6, 2024.

What is congenital heart disease (CHD)?

CHD is a term used to describe defects in the structure of the heart. It may also be called congenital heart defect. Congenital means your child was born with the heart defect. The defect may affect the heart valves, walls, or blood vessels. Your child may have a hole in part of the heart or narrowing of arteries connected to the heart. Blood may not be able to flow to or flow through your child's heart correctly. The defect may be mild or severe.

Heart Chambers

What are the signs and symptoms of CHD?

Your child may not have signs or symptoms for a few years. He or she may never have signs or symptoms. Your child may have any of the following:

What increases my child's risk for CHD?

How is CHD diagnosed?

A congenital heart defect may be found before your baby is born. Your child's healthcare provider will examine your child and listen to his or her heartbeat and breathing. Tell him or her about your older child's signs or symptoms. Tell the provider if your child has had the signs or symptoms before, and how long they lasted. Your child may need any of the following:

How is CHD treated?

Your child's heart defect may not need to be treated. The defect may need to be treated if it is severe or is a type that will not go away without treatment. Your child's age and overall health will also help healthcare providers decide if the defect should be treated. It may not cause health problems as your child gets older.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

What can I do to manage my child's CHD?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:

When should I call my child's doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.