What is congenital heart disease?

Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a group of structural abnormalities of the heart and major blood vessels that are present at birth. These defects can range from mild to severe and can affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

CHD is one of the most common birth defects, occurring in about 1% of newborns. It is more prevalent in certain populations and can be associated with other genetic syndromes or conditions.

CHD can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the type and severity of the defect. Some common symptoms include:

- Difficulty breathing

- Chest pain

- Rapid heart rate

- Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin)

- Fatigue

- Poor feeding or growth

- Swelling in the hands, feet, or face

Treatment for CHD may involve medications, surgeries, or a combination of approaches. The goal of treatment is to correct or improve the heart's function and to alleviate symptoms. Advances in medical technology and surgical techniques have significantly improved the outcomes for individuals with CHD.