Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the structure of the heart and blood vessels present at birth. It is the most common type of birth defect, affecting about 8 out of every 1,000 babies born. CHD can involve the internal structure of the heart, the valves that control blood flow, or the blood vessels that bring blood to and from the heart. The symptoms and severity of CHD can vary widely, depending on the specific condition and how severe it is.
CHD can be diagnosed before birth using prenatal ultrasound, but many cases are not diagnosed until after birth. Treatment options for CHD include medications, catheter-based procedures, and surgery. The type of treatment depends on the specific condition, but the goal is to improve blood flow to the body and prevent complications. Many infants and children with CHD require multiple surgeries throughout their childhood to correct or improve the heart’s structure. With proper care and management, most people with CHD can live normal lives and even participate in sports and other activities.
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