Types of Congenital Heart Disease There are many types of congenital heart disease, or CHDs Some are detected while fetuses are still in the womb with ultrasound and fetal echocardiogram X-rays Simple heart defects get better on their own without treatment, while other complex and critical heart problems must be treated soon after birth https//personalmedicalalarmscomau/medical-alert-2/ About 1 in 4 babies with a CHD has a critical defect that needs surgery within the first year of life Most defects can be treated with nonsurgical procedures These can include oxygen therapy to supply extra blood with oxygen, prostaglandin E1, or a nonsurgical device that closes the defect using a tube The treatment also depends on what's causing the problem For example, a PDA may not close properly and allow extra blood to mix with the blood in the pulmonary artery and cause pulmonary congestion or high blood pressure If the defect is in one of the heart's valves, a catheter procedure may be used to open or stretch the strained valve This can reduce the risk of serious complications, such as heart failure In rare cases, a heart transplant is needed to replace the heart with a healthy donor's heart A cardiologist who has training and expertise in congenital heart defects will determine the best treatment option for you or your child With new diagnostic and treatment tools, the chance of a long, healthy life is greater than ever before If your doctor suspects you or your child have a CHD, talk to him or her right away https//personalmedicalalarmscomau/gps-locator/