Congenital heart disease refers to birth defects that cause the heart to not work and function properly. Around the world, it is estimated to affect about 1 out of every 100 babies born. It is one of the most common congenital conditions there is, and, depending on the type and severity, can have almost zero to very severe impacts on people’s health and lifestyle.

Who can get congenital heart disease?

Medical professionals say that certain genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may increase the risk of babies being born with congenital heart disease.

• Genetics – Many cases of congenital heart disease seem to be inherited.
• Diabetes – Women who have diabetes during their pregnancy may have an increased risk of having a baby with heart developmental issues.
• Rubella – Also known as German measles, this disease may negatively impact the development of the baby’s heart while still in the womb.
• Smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs – These substances have been associated with a greater risk of congenital heart disease.
• Prescription or over-the-counter medications – Pregnant women who take medications have an increased risk of giving birth to babies with heart defects.

What are the symptoms of congenital heart disease?

Congenital heart disease may be detected before the baby is born, at birth, or years later.

During pregnancy – Through ultrasound, doctors can identify an abnormal heartbeat and further examine the problem.

At birth – Newborn babies who have congenital heart disease may come out with bluish fingers, toes, and lips, display some breathing difficulties, experience chest pains, have low birth weight, and show slow growth.

Years later – Toddlers, teens, and adults with congenital heart disease may experience irregular heart rate, extreme fatigue, rapid breathing, and swelling of organs or tissue.

How is congenital heart disease treated?

Treatment for congenital heart disease depends on what kind of heart defect there is. For minor defects, such as a hole in the heart, treatments are not always necessary as this condition usually does not really cause any problems.

However, for major defects, such as those that affect the normal function of the heart, surgery and other medical procedures must be done to fix and repair the problem. Implantable devices, such as pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, catheters, heart transplants, and open-heart surgeries are examples of these surgical treatment methods.

Prescription medications, such as beta blockers, antiarrhythmics, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, antiplatelets, sildenafil, and anticoagulants, may also be given.

What resources are there to help you if you have a child with congenital heart disease?

Educating yourself about congenital heart disease can help you make the best decisions for your child. In your area, you can get in touch with a children’s heart foundation or charity to get information about this condition.

In addition, if you want to give back, you can go to their website and find out how you can give sadqah online or give zakat online. By clicking the button to give sadqah online or give zakat online, you can support and fund the research and studies of heart disease care and prevention and help other children with congenital heart disease and their families.