child heart doctor in nashik

Congenital Heart Disease – Pediatric Overview Overview Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to structural abnormalities in the heart present from birth. These defects can vary from mild (requiring only observation) to severe (requiring intervention). Treatment and follow-up depend on the specific defect and its impact on heart function. Types of Congenital Heart Defects Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Pulmonary or Aortic Valve Stenosis Coarctation of the Aorta Ebstein’s Anomaly Single Ventricle Defects (e.g., Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) Tetralogy of Fallot Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) Symptoms Symptoms vary by defect but may include: Breathing difficulties Poor feeding and growth Fatigue Cyanosis (bluish skin) Frequent respiratory infections Heart murmur Causes Most congenital heart defects arise from unknown causes, though genetics and environmental factors during pregnancy (e.g., infections, medication use, or maternal conditions) may play a role. Diagnosis Echocardiography (ECHO) Electrocardiogram (ECG) Chest X-ray Cardiac MRI or CT Cardiac catheterization Treatment Treatment depends on the severity and type of defect: Observation: For small, asymptomatic defects Medication: To control symptoms or stabilize the patient before surgery (e.g., diuretics, digoxin, prostaglandins) Catheter-Based Interventions: For PDA, ASD, VSD closures, and valvuloplasty Surgery: Required for more complex or severe defects Multistage Surgery: For single ventricle conditions (e.g., Norwood, Glenn, Fontan procedures) Valve Replacement: In stenotic or leaky valves, either surgically or via catheter Arterial Switch Operation: For TGA within the first month of life Complications Heart rhythm issues Heart failure Valve dysfunction Need for repeat procedures Pulmonary hypertension Endocarditis Growth and development delays Prevention While not all CHDs are preventable: Prenatal care and screening Managing maternal health conditions Avoiding teratogenic drugs Genetic counseling for high-risk families