Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are problems with the heart’s structure that happen before birth. These defects can affect how blood flows through the heart and to the rest of the body. Some heart defects are mild and may not need treatment, while others are more serious and require specialized care.
At Banner Health, we provide lifelong care for people born with heart defects, from infancy through adulthood. This page offers an overview of CHDs and connects you to more detailed information on types, causes, diagnosis and treatment.
Congenital heart defects are problems with how the heart forms during pregnancy. These defects can involve the heart’s walls, valves, arteries or veins. A heart defect may change how blood moves through the heart, which can affect how well the heart pumps blood to the rest of the body.
CHDs are also called congenital heart disease or congenital heart anomalies. They are among the most common birth defects, affecting about 1 in 100 babies in the United States.
Some heart defects need treatment soon after birth, while others can be managed later in life. Early diagnosis and ongoing care are important for long-term heart health. Advances in treatment mean many people with CHDs now live active, healthy lives.
There are many types of CHDs. Some of the most common include:
Less common CHDs include transposition of the great arteries, hypoplastic left heart syndrome and coarctation of the aorta.
Read more about the types of congenital heart defects.
CHDs often occur without a clear cause. Genetics, environmental factors during pregnancy and certain health conditions can increase risk.
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the defect. Common signs may include trouble breathing, bluish skin or lips, difficulty feeding and slow weight gain. Some symptoms may not appear until childhood or adulthood.
Understanding causes and recognizing symptoms early can help guide timely care.
Learn more about causes, risk factors and symptoms of CHDs.
Diagnosing a congenital heart defect involves tests that show how the heart is structured and how it functions. Providers may use echocardiograms (ultrasound imaging), electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) and advanced imaging such as MRI.
Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether treatment is needed and what type of care is most appropriate over time.
Read more about how congenital heart defects are diagnosed.
Treatment depends on the type of defect, how severe it is and the patient’s age and overall health. Some CHDs require surgery or catheter-based procedures, while others can be managed with medications and regular monitoring.
Living with a congenital heart defect often involves long-term follow-up and heart-healthy habits. Many people with CHDs lead full, active lives with the right care and support.
Learn more about treatment options and living with congenital heart defects.
Our heart specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of congenital heart defects, from common conditions to rare and complex cases. Care is personalized and coordinated across specialties to support patients throughout every stage of life.
Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health heart specialist.
Sign in to Patient Account
