What is Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) – Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

A hole in the atrial septum characterises an atrial septal defect (ASD), a congenital heart condition. This is the muscular barrier that divides the heart’s two upper chambers or atria. Most little ASDs don’t require therapy. For larger ones, surgery or percutaneous (nonsurgical) correction may be necessary to reduce the possibility of severe consequences.

What kinds of Atrial Septal Defects are there?
Atrial septal defects come in several forms.

• Secundum: The most typical ASD is this one. The midpoint of the wall separating the upper heart chambers is where it appears (atrial septum).
• Primum: This particular ASD may coexist with other congenital heart abnormalities and affects the bottom portion of the atrial septum.
• Sinus venosus: The top portion of the wall dividing the heart chambers is where this uncommon kind of ASD typically manifests. It is linked to other birth-related alterations in the heart’s structure.
• Coronary sinus: Part of the wall between the coronary sinus, which is a component of the heart’s venous system, and the left upper heart chamber (left atrium) is absent in this uncommon form of ASD.

  Symptoms of an Atrial Septal Defect (ADS)
  Many people don’t experience symptoms of an atrial septal defect until well into adulthood, despite the fact that it’s there at birth. Because they do not put stress on the heart or lungs, small ASDs (less than 5 millimeters) may not produce symptoms.

  Children’s ASD Symptoms
  Most kids don’t show any symptoms or indicators. A heart murmur will be the most typical indication, and frequently the only one. When using a stethoscope to examine their heart, their doctor will detect it.

  When kids do exhibit additional symptoms, they comprise:

• Being too thin
• Growth is slow
• Respiratory illnesses that recur

Despite their rarity, children with more severe ASDs may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Exercise causes one to easily become exhausted
• Difficulty breathing

Inform your child’s doctor of any symptoms you observe. Your child’s doctor might wish to do several tests to examine the anatomy and operation of their heart. If the doctor suggests an operation then getting the consultation of the top pediatrician in Ahmedabad is the best option.

What is the cause of ADS?
There is no known cause of the atrial septal defect. A structural issue known as an atrial septal defect develops in the developing heart of an unborn child. Genetics, certain medical disorders, prescription usage, and environmental or lifestyle variables, such as smoking or excessive alcohol use, may all be involved.

Treatment of an Atrial Septal Defect (ADS)
Atrial septal defects can be repaired surgically or non-surgically using percutaneous methods. There are several variables that affect the type and timing of ASD therapy, including:

• Size and kind of ASD.
• How is your heart being impacted by ASD?
• You also have other problems including coronary artery disease, valve disease, and pulmonary hypertension.

Most little ASDs don’t require repair. Larger ASDs, however, ought to be fixed even if there are no symptoms. This avoids potentially fatal issues in the future. Repair is crucial after you show indicators of heart or lung damage. Your doctor will suggest therapy if:

• Your heart is larger on the right side than it should be.
• There is a lot of shunting (flow of blood through the ASD).

Some ASD symptoms may be treated with medication by a hospital for childrens in Ahmedabad. However, there are no drugs that can plug the hole. You might need to take medication before your repair treatment if you have pulmonary hypertension. The procedure is safer for you while being treated for pulmonary hypertension.

ADS While You’re Pregnant
It’s critical to consult your doctor and receive appropriate prenatal care if you have an atrial septal defect and are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. ASD correction before conception may be advised by a medical professional. Pregnancy at high risk may result from a significant atrial septal defect or its consequences to the fetus.

Prevention
Atrial septal defect (ASD) may not be preventable because the etiology is unknown. However, receiving quality prenatal care is crucial. Have a visit to the best pediatric doctor in ahmedabad if you or your child has an ASD and intend to get pregnant. This visit ought to involve:

• Discussing contemporary medical issues and prescription drugs. During pregnancy, you’ll need to keep an eye on certain medical issues, such as diabetes or lupus. Additionally, your doctor could advise modifying or quitting some drugs before conception.
• Reviewing the medical history of your family. Consider speaking with a genetic counselor to learn more about your individual risks if you have a family history of congenital heart abnormalities or other genetic problems.
• Some forms of congenital cardiac abnormalities in the infant have been connected to rubella in the mother. Ask your doctor about vaccinations if you don’t have immunity.

When to Visit a Doctor for ASD!
Large atrial septal abnormalities and other serious congenital heart anomalies are frequently identified prior to or shortly after birth. If you or your kid experiences any of the following – breathing difficulty, simple exhausting, particularly after action, swelling in legs, feet, or belly (abdomen), and palpitations. For further information contact hospital for childrens in Ahmedabad.