Congenital Heart Defects

The next week focuses on congenital heart defect (CDH) awareness week.  The goal is to educate and drive awareness about this condition.

A congenital heart defect is a problem or problems with the structure of your heart.  This is a condition which you would have had from birth but not all congenital heart defects are the same.  

Types of congenital heart disease can be mild and not need surgery.  There are other types that are serious enough to require surgery.  There is some evidence that CDH is genetic so it runs in families.

The CDC says that about 40,000 babies or about 1% of the population of babies born in the US have congenital heart disease.  Babies would exhibit symptoms and while there is no cure, you have treatments available.  Diagnoses can require lifelong care depending on the severity.

Likewise, you can live with congenital heart disease into adulthood.  You may have been treated earlier in life and later symptoms appear.  You should contact your doctor if experience any of the following symptoms:

• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
• Blue skin, lips and fingernails (cyanosis)
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling tired very quickly with activity
• Swelling of body tissue or organs (edema)

It’s important for you to visit a doctor if you notice any changes.  Doctors will give you a physical exam including listening to your heart.  If needed additional tests can be ordered for a diagnosis.

Private Home Health Care knows that your heart is an intricate organ.  We believe that the more information shared the better it is for you to stay healthy.

#CongenitalHeartDefectAwarenessWeek