What is Ventricular Septal Defect?
VSD is a common congenital heart defect (present at birth) where a hole exists in the septum (wall) separating the left and right ventricles. This causes oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, affecting circulation and potentially leading to complications.
While some small VSDs close on their own, larger defects may require medical intervention.
Causes & Risk Factors
VSD is typically present at birth, and while its exact cause is unknown, several factors may contribute:
- Genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome)
- Family history of congenital heart defects
- Maternal infections or drug exposure during pregnancy
- Poor prenatal nutrition affecting fetal heart development
- Diabetes or obesity during pregnancy increasing congenital risks
Symptoms of Ventricular Septal Defect
Some small VSDs may have no symptoms and close naturally, while larger defects may cause noticeable issues:
- Shortness of breath (especially during feeding or exertion)
- Fatigue & difficulty gaining weight in infants
- Heart murmur (abnormal heart sound detected by a doctor)
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Frequent respiratory infections (due to lung congestion)
⚠️ Seek medical advice if an infant has difficulty feeding, rapid breathing, or poor weight gain.
Diagnosis of VSD
Doctors diagnose ventricular septal defects through:
- Stethoscope Examination – Detecting a heart murmur
- Echocardiogram (Echo) – Imaging to measure the hole size
- Chest X-ray – Identifies heart or lung changes
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Checks for abnormal heart rhythms
- Cardiac catheterization – Evaluates blood flow when needed
Treatment Options for VSD
Treatment depends on the size and severity of the defect:
- Small VSDs – May close naturally without intervention.
- Medications – Diuretics to reduce lung congestion, ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure.
- Monitoring – Regular check-ups with a cardiologist.
- Catheter-Based Closure – A minimally invasive procedure for moderate defects.
- Open-Heart Surgery – Required for large or symptomatic VSDs to close the hole.
🔹 Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.
Living with VSD
Most children and adults with treated VSDs lead healthy, normal lives. Key lifestyle tips include:
- Regular exercise (based on doctor's recommendations)
- Heart-healthy diet (low sodium, balanced nutrition)
- Routine cardiac check-ups
- Good oral hygiene (reduces heart infection risks like endocarditis)
- Avoid smoking & excessive alcohol