Atrial Septal Defect in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

The heart is a muscular pump that has four chambers. An atrial septal defect is an opening in the wall between the upper chambers of the heart. It is a type of congenital heart disease, which means that your child was born with it. When this opening is present, some of the blood may flow from one side of the heart through the hole to the other side. This can strain the heart.

A very small hole may not cause problems. A larger hole may damage the lungs and weaken the heart over time. You and your child's doctor can decide if a procedure to close the hole is right for your child.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with the medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
• Watch for symptoms that may mean there is a problem. Symptoms include feeling dizzy, being too tired to do usual activities, or not gaining weight.
• Congenital heart disease can increase your child's risk of an infection in the heart. Talk to your doctor about your child's risk. Your child may need to take antibiotics before certain dental or surgical procedures to prevent infection. And be sure your child takes good care of their teeth and gums.
• Make sure that your child gets all the recommended vaccines, which helps keep your child healthy. Make sure family members and people who are in close contact with your child also get recommended vaccines.
• Help your child eat heart-healthy foods. These foods include vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, lean meat, fish, and whole grains.
• Help your child get regular exercise. Ask your doctor what types of activities and how much exercise is safe for your child.
• Keep your child away from smoke. Do not smoke or let anyone else smoke around your child or in your house. Being around smoke can make your child's heart problems worse.