About Atrioventricular Septal Defect
What is Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect in which there is an abnormal connection between the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria) and the two lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles). This defect can cause blood to flow between the two chambers, resulting in an abnormal heart rhythm and increased pressure in the lungs. Treatment for AVSD typically involves surgery to close the abnormal connection.
What are the symptoms of Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
The most common symptoms of Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) include:
-Shortness of breath
-Rapid breathing
-Poor weight gain
-Fatigue
-Heart murmur
-Bluish tint to the skin
-Swelling in the legs, abdomen, and/or around the eyes
-Irregular heartbeat
-Excessive sweating
-Difficulty feeding
What are the causes of Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect that occurs when the atrial and ventricular septum, the wall that separates the two chambers of the heart, does not form properly. The exact cause of AVSD is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible causes include genetic mutations, exposure to certain medications or toxins during pregnancy, and maternal health conditions such as diabetes or lupus.
What are the treatments for Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect that affects the structure of the heart. Treatment for AVSD depends on the severity of the defect and the symptoms it causes. Treatment options may include:
1. Surgery: Open-heart surgery is the most common treatment for AVSD. During the procedure, the surgeon will repair the defect and reconstruct the heart valves.
2. Medication: Medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as arrhythmias or high blood pressure.
3. Catheterization: A catheter may be used to close the defect or to repair the valves.
4. Transcatheter closure: This procedure involves using a device to close the defect without open-heart surgery.
5. Transcatheter valve repair: This procedure involves using
What are the risk factors for Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
1. Genetic factors: Atrioventricular septal defect is associated with certain genetic syndromes, such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and DiGeorge syndrome.
2. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as alcohol, drugs, and certain medications, during pregnancy may increase the risk of atrioventricular septal defect.
3. Family history: Having a family history of atrioventricular septal defect increases the risk of having the condition.
4. Maternal age: Women over the age of 35 are more likely to have a baby with atrioventricular septal defect.
Is there a cure/medications for Atrioventricular Septal Defect?
Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect that affects the structure of the heart. Treatment for AVSD depends on the severity of the defect and the symptoms it causes. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the defect. Medications may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as high blood pressure or arrhythmias.