Atrial Septal Defect
Also known as: ASD
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect characterised by an abnormal opening in the atrial septum, the wall that separates the upper chambers of the heart (atria). This opening allows blood to flow directly between the atria, which can lead to various complications over time.
What are the symptoms of Atrial Septal Defect?
In many cases, ASD may not cause any symptoms, especially if the defect is small. However, larger defects or those associated with other heart abnormalities may cause symptoms such as:
Fatigue
Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
Heart palpitations or abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
Recurrent respiratory infections, particularly in children
Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen (due to heart failure)
How is Atrial Septal Defect diagnosed?
Diagnosis of ASD typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, which may include:
Echocardiogram:
This non-invasive ultrasound test uses sound waves to create images of the heart, allowing healthcare providers to visualize the structure and function of the heart chambers and identify the presence of an ASD.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):
This test records the electrical activity of the heart and may reveal abnormal heart rhythms or patterns associated with ASD.
Chest X-ray:
A chest X-ray may show enlargement of the heart or increased blood flow to the lungs, which can be indicative of ASD.
Cardiac Catheterisation:
In some cases, a cardiac catheterisation procedure may be performed to obtain more detailed information about the defect and assess its severity.
How is Atrial Septal Defect treated?
Treatment for ASD may vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the defect, the presence of symptoms, and the individual's overall health. Options may include:
Observation:
Small ASDs that are not causing symptoms may be monitored over time without immediate intervention.
Medications:
Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as heart failure or arrhythmias.
Catheter-based closure:
For certain types of ASDs, a minimally invasive procedure known as transcatheter closure may be performed. During this procedure, a closure device is inserted into the heart through a catheter to seal the defect.
Surgical repair:
In some cases, particularly for larger or more complex defects, open-heart surgery may be necessary to repair the ASD. This typically involves patching or sewing closed the abnormal opening in the atrial septum.
Early detection and appropriate management of ASD are important for preventing complications such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or stroke. Individuals with ASD should work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on their individual needs and risk factors.
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