Septal Defect: Overview, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment in Children

What is a Septal Defect?

A septal defect is a hole in the wall that separates the heart’s chambers. This wall is called the septum. In children, a septal defect is a type of congenital heart disease. This means the condition is present at birth. There are two main types:

Atrial septal defect (ASD): A hole between the upper chambers of the heart.

Ventricular septal defect (VSD): A hole between the lower chambers of the heart.

Because of the hole, blood can flow in the wrong direction. As a result, the heart and lungs may work harder than normal. Septal defects are among the most common pediatric heart defects. According to the CDC, they affect thousands of babies each year.

Common Symptoms

Some children with a septal defect have no symptoms. However, others may show signs early in life. For example, you may notice:

Fast breathing or trouble breathing

Poor feeding or slow weight gain

Frequent lung infections

Tiring easily during play or feeding

Blue tint to lips or skin (called cyanosis)

Heart murmur (an extra sound heard with a stethoscope)

But not all symptoms appear right away. Sometimes, signs show up later as the child grows.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most septal defects happen because the heart does not form properly before birth. The exact cause is often unknown. Still, some factors can raise the risk:

Family history of heart defects

Genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome

Mother’s illness during pregnancy, like rubella (German measles)

Mother’s use of certain medicines, alcohol, or drugs during pregnancy

Uncontrolled diabetes in the mother

Even so, many children with septal defects have no known risk factors.

Diagnosis Methods

Doctors use several methods to find a septal defect. First, they listen to the heart with a stethoscope. If they hear a murmur, they may order more tests. For example:

Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that shows the hole and blood flow.

Chest X-ray: Shows the size and shape of the heart and lungs.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): Checks the heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.

Pulse oximetry: Measures oxygen levels in the blood.

Early diagnosis helps doctors plan the best care for your child.

Treatment Options

Treatment for septal defects depends on the size and type of the hole. Some small defects close on their own as the child grows. Others may need treatment. Options include:

Observation: Regular check-ups to watch for changes.

Medicines: Help control symptoms like fluid buildup or irregular heartbeat.

Cardiac catheterization: A thin tube is used to close the hole without surgery.

Surgery: Doctors repair the hole with stitches or a patch.

Most children recover well after treatment. However, regular follow-up is important.

Prevention and Lifestyle Guidance

While you cannot always prevent a septal defect, some steps may lower the risk:

Get regular prenatal care during pregnancy

Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs

Manage chronic conditions like diabetes

Make sure vaccinations are up to date

Talk to your doctor before taking any medicines during pregnancy

After diagnosis, children with septal defects should eat a healthy diet and stay active as advised by their doctor. In addition, regular check-ups help track heart health.

When to See a Pediatric Cardiologist

If your child has symptoms like fast breathing, poor feeding, or blue lips, see a doctor right away. Sometimes, your doctor may refer you to a pediatric cardiologist — a heart doctor for children. Early care can improve outcomes for children with congenital heart disease.

For personalised advice about septal defects, consult Dr. Gaurav, a paediatric cardiologist specialising in heart care for children.