What are the symptoms of a baby with ventricular septal defect?

Infants with ventricular septal defects may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty feeding, and slow weight gain, and need to seek medical evaluation and treatment in a timely manner. Treatment methods include medication, surgery, and regular follow-up, and the specific plan depends on the size of the defect and the severity of the symptoms.

1. Shortness of breath is a common symptom in babies with ventricular septal defect. Because the heart cannot pump blood effectively, the lungs are congested and cause breathing difficulties. Parents should observe the baby's breathing rate. If abnormalities are found, they need to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The doctor may recommend the use of diuretics to reduce lung congestion, or the use of cardiotonic drugs to improve heart function.

2. Feeding difficulties are manifested by weak sucking, easy fatigue or frequent interruptions of feeding, which is related to excessive heart burden. Parents can feed small meals frequently to avoid excessive fatigue of the baby. If the symptoms are severe, the doctor may recommend supplementing nutrition through a nasogastric tube to ensure that the baby gets enough energy.

3. Slow weight gain is a typical manifestation of ventricular septal defect, because heart failure affects nutrient absorption and metabolism. Parents should monitor the baby's weight regularly and record the growth curve. If the weight gain does not meet the standard, the doctor may recommend adding high-calorie formula milk or special nutritional supplements, and if necessary, surgery to repair the defect.

4. Other symptoms include excessive sweating, fatigue, pale or cyanotic skin, which are all related to heart failure and hypoxia. Parents should closely observe their baby's daily behavior and seek medical attention in a timely manner if any abnormality is found. The doctor may recommend a cardiac ultrasound examination to determine the location and size of the defect and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Infants with ventricular septal defects need to be treated under the guidance of a professional doctor. Parents should closely observe changes in symptoms and seek medical evaluation in a timely manner to ensure that the baby receives the best treatment and care to promote healthy growth.