Tag Archives: heart disease

Main Symptoms of Aortopulmonary Septal Defect

An aortopulmonary septal defect is a hole between the main artery that leaves the heart (aorta) and the artery that goes to the lungs (pulmonary artery). This extra shortcut sends too much blood to the lungs, so symptoms show up early and get louder fast. Fast breathing is the first clue. Babies breathe more quickly than normal, especially during feeding or crying. Poor weight gain follows. Infants tire at the bottle, take long pauses, and don’t add ounces like their peers. Heart racing or pounding is common. You can feel the baby’s chest thumping when you pick them up, or... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Atrial Septal Defect

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole between the upper chambers of the heart. It lets extra blood flow through the lungs, so symptoms are usually quiet at birth and pick up slowly over years. Easy fatigue is the first clue. Kids tire faster than friends, adults need an afternoon nap, or legs feel heavy after one flight of stairs. Heart racing or skipped beats can pop up. You feel a sudden flutter, thud, or notice your pulse is faster than normal. Frequent colds or chest infections happen because the extra lung blood makes a good highway for viruses.... Learn more