Understanding Heart Defects: Congenital vs. Acquired
Heart defects are problems with the heart’s structure that affect its ability to function properly. They are broadly categorized into two types based on when they develop: congenital (present at birth) and acquired (developing later in life).
1. Congenital Heart Defects (CHD)
These are the most common types of birth defects. They occur during fetal development, meaning a baby is born with them.
What they are: Structural problems in the heart, such as holes in the heart walls or malformed valves or chambers.
Common Examples:
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): A “hole in the heart” between the two upper chambers (atria).
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): A hole between the two lower pumping chambers (ventricles).
Tetralogy of Fallot: A combination of four defects that affect blood flow to the lungs.
Impact: These defects can disrupt the normal flow of blood through the heart and to the rest of the body, forcing the heart to work harder.
2. Acquired Heart Defects
These develop after birth, at any stage of life, due to illness, infection, injury, or aging.
What they are: Conditions that damage the heart’s structures that were once normal.
Common Causes:
Heart Valve Disease: Often from wear-and-tear with age (e.g., aortic stenosis), or damage from infections like rheumatic fever.
Coronary Artery Disease: Leading to heart attacks that can damage heart muscle.
Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle itself, which can be caused by viruses, alcohol, or high blood pressure.
Impact: Like congenital defects, they can impair the heart’s pumping efficiency and blood flow.
Potential Complications
If left untreated, both types of defects can lead to serious health problems, including:
Heart Failure: The heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms.
Pulmonary Hypertension: High blood pressure in the lungs.
Increased risk of infection in the heart’s lining (endocarditis).
Treatment Options
Treatment is highly personalized and depends on the specific defect and its severity:
Monitoring: Some small, asymptomatic defects may just need regular check-ups.
Medications: To help manage symptoms, control blood pressure, or prevent clots.
Lifestyle Changes: Such as a heart-healthy diet and exercise.
Procedures & Surgery:
Minimally Invasive Catheter Procedures: To repair holes (like ASD/VSD) or open narrowed valves.
Open-Heart Surgery: To repair complex defects or replace damaged valves.
The good news is that tremendous advancements in medicine mean most heart defects, whether present at birth or acquired later, can be effectively managed or repaired, allowing individuals to lead full and active lives.
Dr. Elham Looti Sharokh is a highly accomplished cardiologist and associate professor, recognized for her exceptional expertise in interventional cardiology and commitment to advancing […]
