Can congenital heart disease be cured if it is discovered at the age of 17?

Congenital heart disease was not discovered until the age of 17. After professional treatment, there is still hope for improvement of symptoms and quality of life. Early detection and treatment are the key, and currently intervention can be carried out through drugs, surgery or interventional treatment.

1. Drug treatment: Drug management can relieve symptoms and improve heart function. Common drugs include diuretics such as furosemide, which help reduce the burden on the heart, beta-blockers such as metoprolol, which lower heart rate and blood pressure, and anticoagulants such as warfarin, which prevent thrombosis.

2. Surgical treatment: Surgery can effectively repair heart defects. Common methods include open heart surgery such as atrial septal defect repair, ventricular septal defect repair and heart valve replacement surgery such as aortic valve replacement and mitral valve replacement.

3. Interventional treatment: Minimally invasive interventional technology is suitable for some patients with congenital heart disease. Common methods include transcatheter closure such as atrial septal defect closure, patent ductus arteriosus closure and balloon angioplasty such as aortic coarctation balloon angioplasty.

Lifestyle management is of great significance for auxiliary treatment and improving the quality of life. The diet should be low in salt and fat, and more foods rich in fiber and vitamins, such as fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Appropriate exercise can enhance heart function. It is recommended to choose low-intensity exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga, and avoid strenuous physical activities. Psychological support is also important. Patients with long-term chronic diseases are prone to anxiety and depression. Psychological counseling and family support can help relieve psychological stress.

Regular follow-up and monitoring are important components of congenital heart disease treatment. Patients should undergo regular cardiac ultrasound, electrocardiogram and other examinations as recommended by their doctors and adjust their treatment plans in a timely manner. Protecting heart health also requires avoiding infections, especially preventing colds and flu in winter, and getting relevant vaccines when necessary.

Congenital heart disease was not discovered until the age of 17. Although the best time for treatment has been missed, modern medical methods and comprehensive management can still effectively improve the condition and improve the quality of life. Patients should actively cooperate with treatment, maintain good living habits, and follow up regularly to obtain the best treatment effect.