About Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect

What is Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect in which there is a hole in the wall (septum) between the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria) and the two lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles). This defect can cause blood to flow between the two sides of the heart, leading to an increased workload on the heart and potential complications. Treatment for AVSD typically involves surgery to close the hole and repair the septum.

What are the symptoms of Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

The symptoms of Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) vary depending on the severity of the defect. Common symptoms include:

-Shortness of breath
-Rapid breathing
-Poor feeding
-Failure to gain weight
-Sweating
-Cyanosis (bluish skin color)
-Heart murmur
-Heart palpitations
-Fatigue
-Exercise intolerance
-Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes

What are the causes of Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart defect that occurs when the atrial and ventricular septum, the wall that separates the two chambers of the heart, does not form properly. The exact cause of AVSD is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible causes include genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, maternal infections, and exposure to certain medications or toxins during pregnancy.

What are the treatments for Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

1. Surgery: Open-heart surgery is the most common treatment for intermediate atrioventricular septal defect. During the procedure, the surgeon will close the hole in the septum between the atria and ventricles.

2. Catheterization: This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the heart through a vein in the leg. The catheter is then used to close the hole in the septum.

3. Medication: Medications such as diuretics and ACE inhibitors may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of complications.

What are the risk factors for Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

1. Family history of congenital heart defects
2. Maternal diabetes
3. Maternal use of certain medications during pregnancy
4. Maternal exposure to certain environmental toxins during pregnancy
5. Maternal age over 35
6. Maternal obesity
7. Maternal alcohol use during pregnancy
8. Maternal smoking during pregnancy
9. Maternal viral infection during pregnancy

Is there a cure/medications for Intermediate atrioventricular septal defect?

Yes, there is a cure for intermediate atrioventricular septal defect. The most common treatment is a surgical procedure called an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) repair. This procedure involves closing the hole in the septum between the atria and ventricles, and reconstructing the valves between the atria and ventricles. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.