Congenital heart conditions
Congenital heart condition, also known as congenital heart defects, are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. These conditions range from mild defects that cause little or no symptoms to severe defects that require immediate medical treatment. A congenital heart defect is only discovered later in life.
Plan your appointment
What are congenital heart conditions?
Congenital heart conditions are abnormalities in the structure of the heart or the major blood vessels. They develop during the early stages of the baby's development in the womb and can affect the heart valves, heart chambers, atria and blood vessels around the heart.
Symptoms
Depending on the type and the severity of the condition, the following symptoms may occur:
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath, especially in babies during feeding
- Blue discolouration of the skin or lips (cyanosis)
- Poor weight gain in babies
- Tiredness or fainting
- Heart murmur
- Recurrent respiratory infections
How is it followed up?
Treatment depends on the specific defect. Some children only need regular follow-up, while others require heart surgery or a catheter procedure. In most cases, lifelong follow-up is needed.
Departments
Would you like more information or to make an appointment? If so, please contact the department(s) below.