Congenital Heart Disease Complications And How To Avoid The Disease

Congenital heart disease includes a range of structural heart defects present at birth. These defects can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels. This article highlights possible congenital heart complications and examines what pregnant ladies may do to prevent congenital heart disease in their unborn.

Congenital Heart Disease Complications

Complications that may result from congenital heart disease are increased risks of:

• Heart failure and stroke.
• Inner lining of the heart chambers and valves getting infected and swollen (endocarditis), leading to damage of the valves.
• Other cardiovascular diseases e.g. irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), and pulmonary hypertension.
• Non-cardiac medical problems.
• Complications from surgical treatments

• Potentially life-long medical follow-ups.

Is There A Way To Avoid The Disease?

There is no absolute way to prevent the possibility of congenital heart disease, but pregnant women can take steps to reduce the risk factors.

There is no guaranteed way to prevent the development of congenital heart diseases.

However, pregnant woman can reduce the risk by avoiding known risk factors and taking some precautions:

• Lifestyle changes – avoid smoking and taking alcohol.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals such as organic solvents, paint thinner and nail polish remover.
• Get vaccinated against rubella and influenza, and avoid contact with people who are unwell.
• Consult your doctor on the possible impact on pregnancy before starting on any medications, supplements or herbal remedies.
• Take 400mg folic acid per day during the first trimester to help prevent birth defects.
• Women who are diabetic can undergo treatment to ensure that it is well-controlled.

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