ASD(Hole in the Heart): Symptoms, Cause, All You Need to Know

Overview

All expecting parents want their children to be healthy. However, in some cases, things don’t go as per usual. They might be born with congenital anomalies like a hole in their hearts. In medical language, this is termed an ASD(atrial septal defect). With modern-day developments in surgical science, the holes are easily treatable. Before undergoing such surgeries for your child, you need to know about the procedure, package price, and other details related to the surgery. This will help you to make an informed decision for your child.

What is ASD, or a hole in the heart?

ASD, or Atrial Septal Defect, is a medical term for a hole in the heart. This is congenital heart disease(in-born anomaly). The heart has four chambers- two upper chambers called atria and two lower chambers called ventricles. If any opening exists between the two upper chambers(right and left atria), the condition is known as a hole in the heart.

Also, read - Cerebral Palsy Symptoms in Babies - Risk Factor, Prevention, Treatment

What causes ASD?

Congenital heart defects are caused by problems early in the development of the heart, but there is often no clear cause. Environmental and genetic factors may be involved. VSDs can occur on their own or in conjunction with other congenital heart defects.

What are the symptoms associated with ASD?

ASDs are present from birth, but there are usually no associated symptoms, and the condition can go undetected until adulthood. In some cases, the defect is discovered by chance during a chest X-ray that reveals right-sided heart enlargement.

By the age of 50, an individual with an ASD may begin to exhibit symptoms such as:

-Breathing difficulties

-Fainting

-Heart rhythm irregularities

-Fatigue following light activity or exercise

Also, read - Pediatric Cardiology Surgery - Treating the Heart of Your Little Ones

Why does your child need surgery immediately?

If an ASD is not repaired, the extra blood flow to the right side of the heart and lungs may cause heart problems in the long run. Most of these issues do not manifest themselves until adulthood, usually around the age of 30 or later. In infants and children, complications are uncommon. Complications could include:

ASD causes the right side of the heart to work harder because it has to pump more blood to the lungs. The heart may become tired from the extra work and stop pumping properly over time.

Arrhythmias: Excess blood flowing into the right atrium as a result of an ASD can cause it to stretch and enlarge. Irregular heartbeats can develop as a result of this over time. Palpitations or a racing heart are examples of arrhythmia symptoms.

Stroke: Small blood clots that form on the right side of the heart are usually filtered out by the lungs. A blood clot can sometimes pass from the right atrium to the left atrium via an ASD and be pumped out of the body. This type of clot can travel to a brain artery, blocking blood flow, and result in a stroke.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH): This is defined as an increase in pulmonary arterial pressure. These arteries transport oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the lungs. PH can cause damage to the arteries and small blood vessels in the lungs over time. They thicken and stiffen, making blood flow through them more difficult.

Also, read - Adenotonsillectomy Indications in Children

Cost of a hole in heart surgery or ASD

The average cost of Arterial Septal Defect surgery in various cities in India starts from 2 lakh to 5 lakh. However, the cost may vary based on multiple factors, including:

• The age of the patient
• The severity of the condition
• Patient’s overall health condition
• The location of the hospital
• Experience of the doctor
• 7 days hospital charge
• Operation theatre charges
• Medicines and investigative tests related to the procedure

How can we help with the treatment?

If you want to undergo treatment for congenital heart disease in India, our health trip advisors serve as your guides throughout the medical treatment and will be physically present with you even before the treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangement for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

We are dedicated to offering the highest quality health care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health trip advisors that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.