Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a type of heart defect that is present at birth. It affects the structure of the heart and the way it works. It is one of the most common types of birth defects and affects about one percent of all newborns.
The five main types of congenital heart disease are:
1. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): VSD is a hole in the wall that separates the two ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. This allows oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the body.
2. Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): An ASD is a hole between the two atria, the upper chambers of the heart. This allows oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the body.
3. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA): PDA is a connection between two major arteries in the heart that does not close after birth. This causes oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the body.
4. Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA): CoA is a narrowing of the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the body.
5. Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA): TGA is a condition in which the aorta and the pulmonary artery are switched. This causes oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the body.
Each of these types of CHD can be severe, mild, or even asymptomatic, depending on the individual. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the CHD and may include medication, lifestyle changes, and corrective surgery. It is important for individuals with CHD to be monitored closely by their healthcare provider.