Living With Congenital Heart Defects
Congenital heart defects (CHD) affect many Americans, young and old. CHD is a heart condition present at birth, occurring in almost 1% of births each year in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 40,000 babies in the U.S. are born with a heart defect every year.
Although congenital heart defects can range from mild to life-threatening, the majority of babies born with CHD survive into adulthood thanks to advances in medical care. That means millions of people in the United States are currently living with a congenital heart defect. For most of these patients, lifelong care is needed.
Treatment for CHD can vary widely. Some patients will require surgical procedures and/or medication, while others may only need to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular monitoring.
Even when defects are repaired, people with CHD have an increased risk of further heart problems. Patients may also face psychological and social challenges (such as anxiety or mood disorders), as well as a lack of access to specialty care.
With proper management and healthy lifestyle choices, many people with congenital heart defects can live long and healthy lives. Ways to improve health outcomes with CHD include:
- Taking any medications as prescribed.
- Receiving routine care from a primary care doctor and (if required) a cardiologist.
- Managing any other health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Ensuring you receive routine vaccinations.
- Maintaining oral health with regular dental checkups.
- Eating a heart-healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
- Limiting processed foods and those high in sugar, salt and saturated fat.
- Getting regular physical activity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Finding ways to manage stress and take care of your mental well-being.
- Not smoking or quitting if you do smoke.
Are you looking for support for a congenital heart defect or other heart problems? Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists is here to help. We provide a complete range of specialized cardiac services. We also work with the best health systems to deliver the most advanced cardiology care for our patients.
The team at Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists consists of North Louisiana’s leading experts in cardiovascular care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call our office at (318) 798-9400.