Living with congenital heart disease (CHD) can be a difficult and uncertain journey, and the length of life can vary greatly depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, those with milder forms of CHD can lead near-normal life spans of around 80 years. Others with more severe forms of CHD may not live past their teenage years, and some may even die in infancy.
The prognosis of CHD can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific type of CHD, the age of the patient, and the severity of the condition. Those with milder forms of CHD, such as atrial and ventricular septal defects, may not experience any symptoms and may not require treatment. These milder cases of CHD may not affect life expectancy, and in some cases, can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications.
For those with more severe forms of CHD, such as transposition of the great arteries or hypoplastic left heart syndrome, treatment may involve one or more surgeries, as well as medications and lifestyle modifications. While treatments have greatly improved life expectancy for those with CHD, there is still no guarantee of a specific lifespan.
In general, those with milder forms of CHD can live a near-normal life span, while those with more severe forms of CHD may have a shorter life span. It is important to remember that each case is individual, and life expectancy can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the condition. It is also important to note that life expectancy can be improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, it is important for those with CHD to consult with their medical team to learn more about their prognosis and make the most of their life.