Awareness on Congenital Heart Disease

Herleen Emily
Bula! Friends, Today, I thought of writing about congenital heart disease, an illness that is not usually talked about due to its rareness. As of 2017, 200 children have been born with congenital heart disease in Fiji and it is really important for pregnant women to be aware of this disease to prevent it at an early stage. 

As of such, not many people in Fiji are aware about congenital heart disease and time and again it is the responsibility of respective authorities to reach out to more parents especially in the rural areas.

A congenital heart defect (CHD), also known as a congenital heart anomaly or congenital heart disease, is a problem in the structure of the heart that is present at birth. Signs and symptoms depend on the specific type of problem.^[3] Symptoms can vary from none to life-threatening.
Congenital Heart Disease is a general term for a range of birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart. The term “congenital” means the condition is present at birth.
 What are the causes of congenital heart disease?
·         The heart defect may run in families.
·         Taking certain prescription drugs during pregnancy puts a child at a higher risk for a heart defect.
·         Using alcohol or illegal drugs during pregnancy can increase a child’s risk of having a heart defect.
·         Mothers who had a viral infection during the first trimester of pregnancy are more likely to give birth to a child with a heart defect.
·         Increased blood sugar levels, such as occurs with diabetes, may affect childhood development
 What are the Symptoms of Congenital heart disease?
·         bluish lips, skin, fingers, and toes
·         breathlessness or trouble breathing
·         feeding difficulties
·         low birth weight
·         chest pain
·         delayed growth
·         abnormal heart rhythms
·         dizziness
·         trouble breathing
·         fainting
·         swelling
·         fatigue
How to prevent congenital heart disease?
- If you’re planning on becoming pregnant, talk to your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you’re taking.


- If you have diabetes, make sure your blood sugar levels are under control before becoming pregnant. It’s also important to work with your doctor to manage the disease while pregnant.
- If you weren’t vaccinated against rubella, or German measles, avoid exposure to the disease and speak with your doctor about prevention options.
- If you have a family history of congenital heart defects, ask your doctor about genetic screening. Certain genes may contribute to abnormal heart development.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs during pregnancy.
Whoever is reading this, I hope that you have become aware about congenital heart disease. Please, spread the word as it is becoming very common in unborn children. Save a life! This letter is dedicated to all the parents who have lost their child through congenital heart disease.
By: Herleen Emily.