Congenital Heart Disease in Newborns: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Care for Your Baby

Congenital heart disease (CHD) in newborns is one of the most common types of birth defects. It occurs when the heart or blood vessels fail to develop properly during pregnancy. Parents—especially mothers—should be aware of the risks, symptoms, and treatment options for infants born with CHD.

What Causes Congenital Heart Disease in Infants?

While the exact cause of most congenital heart defects remains unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of having a baby with CHD:

• Smoking during pregnancy

• Infections such as rubella during pregnancy

• Use of certain medications (e.g., statins, ibuprofen, acne treatments)

• Uncontrolled diabetes (type 1 or 2) during pregnancy

• Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome or chromosomal abnormalities

CHD is often the result of developmental problems in the baby’s heart during early pregnancy. In many cases, there is no single identifiable cause.

Symptoms of Congenital Heart Disease in Infants

Some babies may show no symptoms at birth, while others develop signs within the first few months. Key symptoms include:

• Pale grey or blue-tinted skin (cyanosis)

• Rapid breathing

• Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes

• Difficulty feeding and poor weight gain

As children grow, additional signs may appear:

• Fatigue or fainting during physical activity

• Shortness of breath

• Swelling in hands or feet

How Is CHD Treated in Infants?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the defect:

• Prenatal detection: Some heart defects can be detected through ultrasound before birth. In severe cases, treatment may begin while the baby is still in the womb.

• Medication: For less severe defects, medication may be enough to help the heart function and manage blood pressure.

• Surgery: More serious cases may require procedures such as catheterization, open-heart surgery, or even heart transplantation.

• Ongoing care: Regular follow-ups with a pediatric cardiologist are essential for monitoring the child’s development and cardiac health.

Caring for a Baby with CHD

Here are some ways to provide proper care for a baby with congenital heart disease:

1. Proper Feeding

• Many CHD infants struggle with breastfeeding. Mothers may need to pump and bottle-feed, sometimes supplementing with formula to ensure adequate nutrition.

• Weight gain may be slow due to difficulties in absorbing calories and nutrients.

2. Healthy Nutrition

• A balanced diet is vital for managing weight and overall health. Include fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

• Use healthy fats (e.g., olive oil) and lean meats, and avoid greasy or heavily processed foods.

3. Adequate Sleep

• Sufficient sleep supports heart health and growth. Poor sleep can negatively impact mood, metabolism, and energy levels.

4. Regular Physical Activity

• Children with CHD should remain active, as approved by their doctor. Experts recommend at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity to reduce risks of high blood pressure and obesity.

5. Frequent Check-ups

• Ongoing medical evaluations help track the child’s progress and adjust treatment when necessary. Even after treatment, lifelong cardiac monitoring may be needed.

Can CHD Be Prevented?

Since CHD is often genetic, there's no guaranteed way to prevent it. However, steps can be taken to reduce risk during pregnancy:

• Avoid smoking and alcohol

• Get vaccinated (e.g., rubella, flu)

• Consult your OB-GYN before taking any medications

• Manage existing health conditions like diabetes

• Take folic acid supplements to lower the risk of birth defects

• Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals (e.g., nail polish remover, cleaning products)