Congenital Heart Defects

Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if your child has Reference severe difficulty breathing Opens New Window, faints, or has Reference seizures Opens New Window.

Call your doctor immediately if your child with a congenital heart defect has:

• Symptoms of Reference heart failure Opens New Window 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 Reference endocarditis Opens New Window, such as a fever that won't 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 isn't 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 isn't gaining weight.

Who to See

The following health professionals can evaluate symptoms of a congenital heart defect:

• Reference Pediatrician Opens New Window
• Pediatric Reference cardiologist Opens New Window
• Reference Family medicine physician Opens New Window
• Reference Internist Opens New Window (for adults with possible congenital heart disease)
• Reference Physician assistant Opens New Window
• Reference Nurse practitioner Opens New Window

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.

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