Dr. Nilesh Purkar : Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD)
Heart disease does not usually appear as we age. On rare occasions, you are born with it. Congenital heart disease describes cardiac diseases that can be detected at birth. This can be diagnosed in infants, children, teenagers, or adults. The likelihood of living an active, healthy life as an adult with congenital heart disease is higher than ever.
Congenital heart abnormalities come in various forms, from straightforward disorders with no symptoms to complex ones with severe, life-threatening symptoms. Blockages of blood flow from the right ventricle to the aorta or changes in the path of the coronary arteries are common heart disorders that can co-occur with these.
Nearly all children with congenital heart abnormalities survive into adulthood thanks to advances in congenital heart disease treatments and aftercare. Some people require ongoing care their entire lives.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease Types
Congenital heart disease comes in more than 30 different varieties. The following are some of the more typical types we treat
- • Atrial Septal Defects: When the wall between the heart's upper two chambers develops a hole, it is known as an atrial septal defect.
- • Congenital Valve Disease results from improper development of one or more cardiac valves.
- • Patent Foramen Ovale: A hole in the heart called a typically has no symptoms and doesn't require medical attention
- • Ventricular Septal Defects: A hole in the muscular wall separating the heart's lower two chambers is a ventricular septal defect.
Symptoms of Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Adults with congenital heart disease frequently report to their doctors that they have severe exercise intolerance and shortness of breath.
Some of the warning signs are:
- Cyanosis, which gives the skin a blue tint
- Fainting
- Abnormal bodily enlargement in many places
- Breathing difficulty when active
When to See a doctor
Although most patients get mild to severe symptoms, some adults also claim no symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider if you think you could have a congenital heart defect. They will perform a preliminary examination and, if necessary, send you to our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program.
Contact us for any kind of heart disease. Dr. Nilesh Purkar has years of experience in cardiology and his dedication towards his work promises a better future to each patient.