Do children suffer from atrial septal defects?

Yes, children can suffer from atrial septal defects, which are a type of congenital heart defect. Atrial Septal Defects (ASD) occur when there is an abnormal opening in the wall that separates the two upper chambers of the heart called the atria. These openings allow blood to flow between them and cause an increased amount of pressure in the lungs and left side of the heart as a result, leading to cardiac problems if it is left untreated.

Symptoms associated with ASD include fatigue and shortness of breath due to increased pressure on the body’s circulatory system. Depending on their severity, ASDs can be diagnosed through physical examination or by using echocardiography, Electrocardiogram (ECG), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans or other tests such as an exercise test or Doppler Ultrasound scan.

Infants who are born with ASD may require surgery to close up any openings in order to restore normal blood circulation within the body. However, often lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake and regular exercise may also help improve symptoms due to milder forms of ASD without needing surgery. In addition, taking medications like diuretics will help reduce fluid retention associated with ASDs for those who need it most.