Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to heart defects that are present at birth. These defects occur when the heart or the blood vessels near the heart don’t develop normally before birth. CHD can vary widely in severity, from simple issues that may resolve on their own or need minimal treatment, to complex problems that require surgery and ongoing care

Key Points to Understand:

1. Types of CHD:
   • Septal Defects: Holes in the walls (septa) that separate the heart chambers. Common types include atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD).
   • Valve Defects: Problems with the heart valves, such as stenosis (narrowing), atresia (absence of a valve), or regurgitation (leaky valve).
   • Tetralogy of Fallot: A combination of four defects that affect blood flow through the heart.
   • Transposition of the Great Arteries: The positions of the main arteries leaving the heart are reversed.
   • Coarctation of the Aorta: A narrowing of the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the body.

   Causes: Most congenital heart defects have no known cause. However, some can be linked to genetic factors, certain medications taken during pregnancy, maternal illnesses, or environmental factors.

   Symptoms: Symptoms depend on the type and severity of the defect. They can include:Rapid breathingCyanosis (bluish tint to the skin, lips, and nails)Fatigue, especially during feeding in infantsPoor weight gain

   Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or areas around the eyes