How Can I Tell If My Baby or My Child Has a Heart Defect?

In cases where the cardiovascular defect is septal – that is, there is a small or large hole in the heart, a heart defect is usually determined upon the birth of the child.

Depending upon the defect, other symptoms may occur early or, in some cases, may not appear until later in life. However, if the flow of blood to the heart is dramatically reduced, the symptoms will reveal themselves earlier.

For example, a baby born with a hole in her heart may exhibit blue lips, tips of fingers, or skin. This often occurs when the baby cries or becomes fatigued. Other symptoms may include the inability to gain weight, rapid breathing, poor circulation, or being less active than normal.

In older children, symptoms may include tiring more frequently (especially after intense activity), and exhibiting shortness of breath.

Although a doctor may discover a heart murmur, it should be noted that not all heart murmurs are a direct result of a heart defect. In fact, many children have heart murmurs and are perfectly healthy.

However, the doctor may wish to rule out any problems by ordering tests to determine the cause. One test is called an echocardiogram in which the doctor can examine the heart via ultrasound. Another test that may be performed is a catheterization procedure. Pictures are taken of the heart through the injection of dye into the blood vessels.

If your infant or child is diagnosed with a cardiovascular defect, you will be referred to a children’s cardiologist who will determine if an operation is needed. The key, of course, is ascertaining the type of defect that has affected your child’s heart through a series of tests.

Since there are many different types of congenital cardiovascular defects, it is a good idea to research the specific defect as determined by the doctor and read about the tests your child may have to undergo as well as any surgical procedures that may be required.

Keep in mind that only 1% of babies born today have a heart defect. The prognosis for most of these conditions is very good due to the many advances made in cardiovascular research.