What are the main symptoms or signs of Adult congenital heart disease?

Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.

When should you see a doctor for Adult congenital heart disease?

See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.

Cardiology

Adult congenital heart disease

Lifelong follow-up

Dr. Léa Dumas

Cardiologist

6 min read

Medical illustration of Adult congenital heart disease

In simple terms

More and more adults live with congenital heart disease: organized specialized follow-up.

A growing population

Thanks to advances in pediatric cardiology, 90% of children with congenital heart disease reach adulthood. They require specialized follow-up throughout their lives.

Main pathologies

Atrial/ventricular septal defect, tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, coarctation of the aorta, single ventricle. Each requires specific follow-up.

Specific complications

Arrhythmias: very frequent
Heart failure
Pulmonary hypertension
Endocarditis: prevention according to risk
Reoperations sometimes necessary

Specific issues

Contraception, pregnancy (multidisciplinary preconception consultation), adapted physical activity, work, anesthesia: all require specialized advice.

Organized follow-up

Centers of expertise dedicated to adult congenital heart disease. Smooth transition from pediatric to adult cardiology.

The words explained

Medical terms used above, in everyday language.

Blood pressure: The force of blood pushing against your artery walls. Too high, over years, damages the heart and vessels.
Prevention: Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.

When should you see a doctor?

Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
You already take medication and want to change anything about it.

This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Adult congenital heart disease?: More and more adults live with congenital heart disease: organized specialized follow-up.
What are the main symptoms or signs of Adult congenital heart disease?: Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
When should you see a doctor for Adult congenital heart disease?: See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.

#congenital #heart #adult