Congenital Heart Disease Directory
Congenital heart disease begins as a heart defect before birth. The defects may not produce symptoms until later in adulthood. Causes of congenital heart disease include Down syndrome, rubella, or smoking/using drugs during pregnancy. Types of defects include heart valve defects, defects in the heart atria or ventricles, or heart muscle abnormalities. Symptoms may be shortness of breath or limited ability to exercise. Treatments depend on which condition is present but may include medications or surgery. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how congenital heart disease is caused, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
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How to Thrive with a Congenital Heart Defect
Having a congenital heart defect doesn’t mean your life stops. Medical advances all but ensure you’ll live long, healthy years.
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What tests diagnose congenital heart defects?
How are congenital heart defects diagnosed? What tests are done and what do they reveal?
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Learn the types of congenital heart defects
Congenital heart defects may require multiple surgeries to treat, while some heal on their own. Learn some of the most common conditions that could affect a newborn’s heart.
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Congenital heart defects: Know the main risk factors.
What are the main risk factors for congenital heart defects? Can I lower the risks?
Slideshows & Images
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Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Heart Disease
WebMD provides a visual overview of heart disease, including symptoms to watch for, diagnostic tests, treatments, and prevention strategies.
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The Heart (Human Anatomy): Picture, Definition, Location in the Body, and Heart Problems
WebMD's Heart Anatomy Page provides a detailed image of the heart and provides information on heart conditions, tests, and treatments.
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The Aorta (Human Anatomy): Picture, Function, Location, and Conditions
WebMD's Aorta Anatomy Page provides a detailed image and definition of the aorta. Learn about its function and location as well as conditions that affect the aorta.