What are the symptoms of children with congenital heart disease?

Congenital heart disease will affect and threaten the healthy growth of the next generation. Although the pathogenesis of this disease is still unclear, it may be caused by multiple factors such as genetics, viral infection, environmental pollution, radiation, etc., but it must be taken seriously by each of us, such as strengthening screening and health care for pregnant women. Many people may still have questions: how should children with congenital heart disease be treated?

Congenital heart disease is the most common type of congenital malformations, accounting for about 28% of all congenital malformations. It refers to anatomical abnormalities caused by formation disorders or developmental abnormalities of the heart and large blood vessels during embryonic development, or the failure of channels that should close automatically after birth to close (normal in the fetus). The incidence of congenital heart disease cannot be underestimated, accounting for 0.4% to 1% of live births, which means that there are 150,000 to 200,000 new patients with congenital heart disease in my country every year.

The spectrum of congenital heart disease is particularly broad, including hundreds of specific types. Some patients may have multiple malformations at the same time, and the symptoms vary greatly. The mildest case may be asymptomatic throughout life, while the most severe case may show severe symptoms from birth such as hypoxia, shock, and even death. Based on hemodynamics combined with pathophysiological changes, congenital heart disease can be divided into cyanotic or non-cyanotic types.

There are many types of congenital heart disease, and their clinical manifestations mainly depend on the size and complexity of the malformation. Complex and severe malformations can cause serious symptoms shortly after birth and even be life-threatening. It should be noted that some simple deformities may not have obvious symptoms in the early stages, but the disease may still potentially develop and worsen, and require timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid losing the opportunity for surgery.

Congenital heart disease cannot be ignored, especially for expectant mothers. They should pay attention to this issue before pregnancy, that is, do not smoke, do not drink alcohol, maintain a good and peaceful mentality and an optimistic and positive mood. Pregnant women should try to avoid exposure to radioactive substances, such as X-rays, electromagnetic radiation, etc. during pregnancy, so as to avoid harm to the baby.