Congenital Heart Defects - When To Call a Doctor
Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if your child has severe difficulty breathing, faints, or has seizures.
Call your doctor immediately if your child with a congenital heart defect has:
Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome
Important It is possible that the main title of the report Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.
Read the Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome article > >
- Symptoms of heart failure or cyanosis-the bluish tint that affects skin, lips, and nails because of lack of oxygen-that become significantly worse within a short time period.
- Symptoms of endocarditis, such as a fever that will not go away.
Talk to your doctor if your child with a congenital heart defect has:
- Moderate difficulty breathing.
- Fewer wet diapers and has swelling (puffy eyes, hands, and feet).
- A poor appetite and is not eating well, or sweats while eating, or has a rapid heartbeat or rapid breathing while eating.
- Less energy or seems to be sleeping more than usual.
- Sudden weight gain or is not gaining weight.
Watchful Waiting
Watchful waiting, which is a wait-and-see approach, is not appropriate if:
- You think your child has a congenital heart defect.
- Your child has a congenital heart defect and the symptoms change.
Who To See
The following health professionals can evaluate symptoms of a congenital heart defect:
- Pediatrician
- Pediatric cardiologist
- Family medicine physician
- Internist (for adults with possible congenital heart disease)
- Physician assistant
- Nurse practitioner
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
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