Parents probably want to know what causes congenital heart disease. The causes of congenital heart disease can be broadly divided as follows:
1. It is caused by genetic or chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down Syndrome, and it is frequently found in older mothers during pregnancy.
2. It is caused by infection experienced by the mother during pregnancy, especially within the first trimester, for example, rubella, enterovirus, etc.
3. It is caused by the mother being sick with a deadly disease or chronic disease like SLE, diabetes and hypertension.
4. It is caused by the mother taking some drugs or substances like amphetamines, certain types of anti-seizure medications, steroids and alcohol and cigarettes, etc.
5. It is caused by the mother’s exposure to x-ray during the first trimester of pregnancy.
6. The cause is unknown, which is the majority of cases.
Parents should know how to care for children with congenital heart disease.
First, they should know what type of congenital heart disease the child has and whether or not heart failure or cyanosis can occur.
Second, they should know whether it can be treated by certain drugs or use of a special device to seal parts that are regurgitating or whether surgery is needed.
Third, if treatment requires use of a special device to close a leak, or if surgery is necessary, they need to know when the treatment should take place, including the disease’s prognosis.
Fourth, they should follow doctors’ recommendations, because the severity of the disease can vary. Generally, the child should be on a low-sodium diet and avoid rigorous exercises, especially competitive sports. Some children might also require drugs to nourish the heart (digitalis) and/or diuretics or other drugs, depending on the nature and severity of the disease.
Fifth, parents should consult their doctors every time their children undergo tooth extraction or surgery in order to be administered antibiotics to prevent heart infection.
Sixth, parents should take their children to regularly see doctors according to appointments.
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