Causes Of Congenital Heart Disease In Babies And Risk Factors To Watch Out For

Illustration of prevention of congenital heart disease (Pinterest/@storksoveratlanta)

YOGYAKARTA - Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is an abnormality in the structure and function of the heart that has existed since birth. This disorder can affect the ability of the heart to pump blood and distribute it throughout the body. The severity varies, ranging from mild to severe conditions that can threaten lives.

Some people with congenital heart disease only require routine examinations, but others require surgery or even a heart transplant. This disease occurs due to disorders in the process of forming fetal heart organs during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to understand the factors causing it in order to prevent risks from an early age.

Although there is no single cause, several factors have been shown to increase the risk of congenital heart disease. One of them is genetic factors, especially if there is a history of heart disease or chromodynamic disorders such as Down syndrome and Edward syndrome.

Another factor is the medical condition in mothers, such as type 1 or 2 diabetes that is out of control during pregnancy. Autoimmune diseases such as Sjoorgren syndrome can also increase the risk of babies being born with heart disorders. In addition, unhealthy habits such as smoking, consuming alcohol, or exposure to harmful chemicals while pregnant also contribute to the onset of this disease.

Some viral infections such as rubella in the first trimester of pregnancy are also the main triggers for congenital heart disease. Organic solvent exposure from paint, glue, and nail polish products is a risk factor that must be avoided by pregnant women. The use of certain drugs such as anti-confession, retinoid-class acne drugs, or statins without a doctor's supervision can also interfere with the development of fetal organs.

Congenital heart disease can be distinguished based on the disordered part of the heart. Disorders in arteries and veins, for example, can cause blood flow from and towards the heart to be hampered. Some examples of these conditions include Transposition of Large Arterials (TAB), Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), Truncus Arteriosus, and Koartasio Aorta.

There are also abnormalities that occur in cardiac valves, such as Tricuspid Atresia where the valve between the sickle and the right booth is not perfectly formed, or Pulmonary Atresia which inhibits blood flow to the lungs. Aorta Katup Stenosis is also included in it, where the valve between the left booth and the aorta narrows so that the heart is difficult to pump blood.

In addition, there are abnormalities in the dividing wall between the cardiac space, such as the Septum Atrium effect and the Septum Ventricel defect. This disorder causes blood to gather in an inappropriate part. Another type that is more complex is the Tetralogy of Fallot, a combination of four heart disorders at birth.

Congenital heart disease can be detected from the womb through routine ultrasound pregnancy examinations. One of the initial signs is an irregular or too fast fetal heartbeat. After the baby is born, the symptoms that often appear include bluish color on the skin (sianosis), difficulty breathing, low weight, and fatigue easily when breastfeeded.

In some cases, new symptoms arise when children enter childhood or adolescents. Children may experience dizziness, irregular heart rate, or get tired quickly when doing activities. If not treated properly, this condition can cause serious complications such as heart failure and growth disorders.

Therefore, routine examinations of doctors are very important for children who are suspected of having congenital heart disorders. If symptoms such as blue skin, swelling in the leg, or difficulty breathing arise, immediately take them to the nearest hospital. Early treatment can save lives and improve the quality of life of the patient.

Although not all cases of congenital heart disease can be prevented, risks can be minimized by maintaining health during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and medicine without a doctor's prescription. Regular health checks and blood sugar levels control for diabetics are also highly recommended.

Early detection through ultrasound or fetal echocardiogram examination can help doctors monitor the development of the baby's heart. If an abnormality is found, treatment can be done immediately after birth, either through treatment, medical treatment, or heart surgery. With proper treatment, sufferers can grow healthy and live a normal life like other children.