Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are problems with the heart’s structure that a person is born with. These defects can affect how blood flows through the heart and to the rest of the body. Understanding the causes and signs of CHDs can help families recognize concerns early and get the right care.
At Banner Health, our heart specialists care for people of all ages with congenital heart defects. We’re here to help you understand these conditions and support you or your child at every stage of care.
Congenital heart defects occur when something affects how a baby’s heart develops during pregnancy. Most CHDs form in the first six weeks of pregnancy, when the heart is still developing.
In many cases, the exact cause of a heart defect is unknown. Some CHDs are inherited or linked to genetic changes. If a parent or close family member was born with a heart defect, the risk may be higher.
Certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, are also commonly associated with congenital heart defects and can affect how the heart forms.
Some exposures during pregnancy may raise the risk of heart defects, including:
If you are pregnant and smoke or drink alcohol, talk with your health care provider about support to help you quit.
Some medications taken during pregnancy can affect heart development, including:
Do not start or stop any prescription medication before or during pregnancy without guidance from your health care provider.
Some health conditions may increase the risk of CHDs, such as:
Your provider can help you manage health conditions and stay up to date on recommended vaccinations.
Low levels of key nutrients, including folic acid, during pregnancy may contribute to heart defects.
Your provider can recommend appropriate prenatal vitamins before, during and after pregnancy.
Many congenital heart defects are found before birth or shortly after delivery. Some signs may not appear until infancy, childhood or even adulthood. Symptoms can vary based on age and the type of defect.
Because babies are small, heart problems can affect them more quickly. Watch for:
Signs may become subtler as children grow, including:
Symptoms may become more noticeable during activity:
Older children and adults with CHDs may experience:
If you or your child experience any of these signs at any age, talk with a health care provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and support long-term heart health.
If a congenital heart defect is suspected based on symptoms, family history or prenatal screening, your health care provider may recommend tests to confirm the diagnosis and understand how the heart is affected. Early and accurate diagnosis helps guide treatment and long-term care.
Learn more about how congenital heart defects are diagnosed.
Our heart specialists at Banner Health diagnose and treat a wide range of congenital heart defects, from common conditions to rare and complex cases. We take an individualized approach to care, creating treatment plans based on each patient’s needs, age and overall health.
Whether care is needed in infancy, childhood or adulthood, our teams are here to support lifelong heart health.
Schedule an appointment for congenital heart defect care at Banner Health.
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