Knowing the Type of Congenital Heart Disease in Babies Before It is Too Late to Be Treated

Illustration of the type of congenital heart disease in infants (freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - Knowing the type of congenital heart disease in infants makes every parent ready for the worst possibilities. This condition is not always apparent since the baby is born. Many new cases are detected after the first few weeks.

This disease occurs when the heart structure does not develop perfectly since it is in the womb. This does not mean that this is the fault of the parents, but the most important thing is to recognize it early so that treatment can be carried out immediately.

What is Congenital Heart Disease?

Dilansir dari laman Mayo Clinic, penyakit jantung bawaan (PJB) adalah kelainan pada struktur jantung yang sudah ada sejak bayi lahir.

Based on data, at least 8 out of every 1,000 babies are born with this condition. That is, the case is much more common than many people think.

Types of Congenital Heart Disease in Babies

There are many types of PJB, ranging from mild to those requiring immediate treatment. Here are the five most common types found in babies.

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

VSD is a condition where there is a hole in the dividing wall between the right and left chambers of the heart. This is the most common type of PJB. Small holes may close on their own, but large holes require immediate medical action.

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

ASD occurs when there is a hole in the wall between the right and left atria of the heart. Unlike VSD, this condition often does not show symptoms until the child grows older.

Read also: Often Heartbeat? Know Which is Normal and Need to Be Wary

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four heart abnormalities at once, including a hole in the lower chamber and a narrowing of blood flow to the lungs. One of its typical signs is the baby's skin that looks bluish or cyanotic. This condition is considered serious and generally requires surgery in the first year of life.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

PDA occurs when the connecting channel between the aorta and the pulmonary artery does not close after the baby is born. This channel should close on its own within a few hours after birth. This condition is more common in babies born prematurely.

Transposition of the Great Artery (TGA)

TGA is a condition in which the two main arteries that leave the heart are in an inverted position. As a result, blood flow to the entire body is seriously disrupted, which becomes a medical emergency and babies need immediate treatment after birth.

Common Symptoms that Parents Need to Watch Out For

Symptoms of PJB vary depending on the type and severity. In serious cases, the signs usually appear within the first day or month after birth.

Some symptoms that you need to pay attention to include lips, nails, or tongues that appear bluish, rapid breathing, difficulty breastfeeding, and weight that does not rise normally.

Then in older children, symptoms can include fatigue during activities, shortness of breath, even fainting. If your baby shows any of these signs, don't delay taking him to a pediatrician.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Early diagnosis is very important for the quality of life of the child in the future. Echocardiographic examination can be done even from the age of neonates to detect abnormalities from the beginning. Remember one thing: early detection, greater chance of recovery.

Can Hereditary Heart Disease Be Cured?

The good news is, not all PJB requires major surgery. Some types such as small VSD can close on their own as the baby grows.

However, more complex PJB may require cardiac catheterization or open heart surgery.

However, don't panic first because advances in medical technology have allowed many babies with PJB to grow and develop well. The important thing is, you don't put it off.

Understanding the types of congenital heart disease in infants is not easy, but the right information can be a life-saving first step. For health news, and other children's growth and development, visit VOI.