How is an atrial septal defect formed?

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect in which there is a hole between the two upper chambers of the heart, known as the atria. This hole can be large or small and cause oxygen-rich blood to flow from the left atrium to the right atrium, leading to an inefficient circulation of blood throughout your body.

The exact cause of ASD is unknown but many factors are believed to contribute such as genetic factors, viral infections during pregnancy or alcohol use before conception. A mother’s age may also play a role; women over 30 have been shown to have an increased risk for giving birth to babies with ASD. Additionally, certain chromosomal abnormalities including Down syndrome can increase the risk for this condition as well.

Most ASDs are diagnosed soon after birth when doctors detect abnormal chest sounds during physical exams or by echocardiography scans that show an abnormal flow of blood between both sides of your baby's heart. The larger ASDs may require more aggressive treatment while smaller ones often mend on their own and close up over time if monitored closely by a pediatrician or cardiologist throughout childhood development stages.