Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
ATRIAL SEPTAL
DEFECT
About Your
Diagnosis
The atria are the upper
chambers of the heart. The septum is the wall of heart muscle that divides the
left and right sides. A defect in the septum produces a hole in the heart. These
abnormalities develop before birth (congenital) and may persist as holes into
adulthood. The left side of the heart normally pumps under higher pressure than
the right side. The defect produces a left-to-right shunt that allows blood from
the two sides of the heart to mix. Blood with less oxygen is pumped to the body,
and oxygenated blood travels back to the lungs. This may overload the
circulation on the right side of the system and cause pulmonary hypertension.
Small defects may not cause a problem. Larger defects eventually overload the
right heart system, possibly causing heart failure (inefficient pumping of the
heart). Heart failure causes fatigue, difficulty breathing, especially with
exertion, or chest pain. Cyanosis, a bluish tone to the skin, occurs if poorly
oxygenated blood reaches the skin. Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) may
develop. Atrial septal defects are more common among girls than among boys. Some
defects close as the child grows, but others may persist into adulthood. Atrial
septal defect is the most common congenital heart defect diagnosed among adults.
Persons with small defects or defects that close may never have symptoms and
need no treatment. If the defect persists, symptoms may develop that necessitate
treatment to correct the
defect.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of atrial
septal defect is made on the basis of symptoms and findings at physical
examination. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may show abnormalities and a chest
radiograph (x-ray) is nearly always abnormal, demonstrating enlargement of the
lung vessels and an enlarged heart. An echocardiogram (ultrasound examination of
the heart) is performed to assess the structure and pumping function of the
heart and to measure relative pulmonary versus systemic (to the body) blood
flow.
Treatment
Persons
with atrial septal defect are referred to a cardiologist. Management of
excessive pulmonary flow generally necessitates requires an operation to correct
the defect. Heart failure may be managed with diuretics to reduce excess blood
volume or digitalis to help the contracting efficiency of the heart. Arrhythmias
may be managed with antiarrhythmic drugs. If there is no other heart disease,
correcting the defect usually allows a normal life span and
lifestyle.
The
DOs
•Take all prescribed
medications.
•Exercise if allowed by
your doctor.
The
DON’Ts
•Do not ignore
worsening symptoms. Seek medical attention
immediately.
When to Call Your
Doctor
•If you have symptoms of
atrial septal defect.