Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) Treatment in Gurgaon, India

What is Congenital Heart Disease?

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) refers to a group of structural defects in the heart that are present from birth. These malformations may affect any part of the heart, including its walls, septum, chambers, valves, and the major blood vessels connected to it. Depending on the nature and severity of the defect, CHDs can disrupt the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, impair oxygen circulation, and cause serious health complications—especially if not detected and managed promptly.

CHD is one of the most prevalent congenital disorders globally, affecting approximately 8–10 out of every 1,000 live births. It encompasses a wide spectrum of conditions—from minor anomalies that may go unnoticed for years to complex abnormalities that require urgent medical or surgical intervention in infancy or early childhood.

Thanks to remarkable advances in diagnostic tools such as fetal echocardiography, 3D imaging, and genetic testing, early detection has become possible even during pregnancy. In parallel, breakthroughs in pediatric cardiology, minimally invasive procedures, and open-heart surgery have significantly improved long-term survival and quality of life for children and adults with CHD. Today, with proper care, many individuals born with CHD go on to live full, active lives, attend school, work, marry, and have children of their own.

Importantly, congenital heart diseases are not always detected at birth. In some cases, symptoms manifest later in infancy, childhood, or even adulthood—making awareness and timely evaluation critical for better health outcomes.

What are the Different Types of Congenital Heart Disease?

Congenital Heart Disease includes a wide variety of structural anomalies, and to understand them better, they are generally classified into two broad categories based on how they affect oxygenation of blood:

• Acyanotic CHDs – These defects do not usually result in low oxygen levels in the blood. Children with these conditions may not appear bluish, but they may still suffer from poor growth, fatigue, and recurrent respiratory infections.

• Cyanotic CHDs – These defects lead to the mixing of oxygen-poor and oxygen-rich blood, resulting in low blood oxygen levels. This can cause cyanosis, a bluish tint to the lips, nails, or skin, especially during exertion or crying.

Understanding the differences between these two categories helps in deciding the appropriate treatment strategy and urgency of care. Here is a simplified table to guide you through some of the most common types of CHDs:

Classification of Common Congenital Heart Defects

What are the Symptoms of Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)?

The symptoms of CHD can vary widely based on the type and severity of the defect. Some children may be diagnosed immediately after birth due to noticeable signs, while others may show symptoms later in childhood or even adulthood. Awareness of these indicators plays a critical role in early intervention and improved outcomes.

Below is a categorized list of common symptoms based on age

In Newborns and Infants

Children with CHD may present early signs that can sometimes be mistaken for feeding difficulties or respiratory infections. Be alert for the following:

• Bluish lips, skin, or nails (cyanosis): Indicates low oxygen levels in the blood.

• Poor feeding and slow weight gain: Infants may struggle to breastfeed or bottle-feed.

• Rapid breathing or frequent respiratory infections: A sign of poor circulation and heart strain.

• Tiredness during feeding or crying: Fatigue may be a red flag for heart inefficiency.

• Excessive sweating: Especially while feeding or sleeping.

• Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes: Can be due to fluid retention from heart failure.

In Older Children and Adults

If not diagnosed earlier, symptoms may appear as the child grows or even in adulthood:

• Shortness of breath during activity: May indicate limited oxygen delivery.

• Fainting spells or chest discomfort: Especially during exertion.

• Heart murmurs: Often the first clue, detected during a routine check-up.

• Fatigue or reduced stamina: May result from insufficient blood flow.

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat: Indicates arrhythmias caused by structural abnormalities.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)?

Congenital Heart Disease arises during fetal development when the heart or its major blood vessels fail to form properly. In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. However, extensive research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and maternal health factors can contribute to the development of CHD. Understanding these risk factors can help in early screening, especially in high-risk pregnancies.

Some defects are linked to identifiable syndromes or inherited genetic mutations, while others may result from prenatal exposures or maternal conditions. Importantly, not all CHD cases are preventable, but managing risk can reduce likelihood or severity.

Key Risk Factors for CHD

When to Consult a Doctor for Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)

Early medical consultation is crucial when symptoms suggest a congenital heart defect, especially in newborns, infants, or young children. If your child shows signs such as bluish lips or nails, difficulty breathing, fatigue during feeding, or poor weight gain, seek immediate evaluation by a pediatric cardiologist.

In older children or adults, symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fainting spells, or irregular heart rhythms may indicate an undiagnosed CHD. Individuals with a family history of heart defects or known genetic syndromes should also consider early cardiac screening—even if no symptoms are present.

Timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve quality of life and prevent life-threatening complications. Always consult a specialist if you suspect any heart abnormality in your child or yourself.

What are the Diagnostic Tests for Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)?

When congenital heart disease is suspected, a series of diagnostic tests can be performed to accurately identify the type, severity, and implications of the heart defect. These tests help guide appropriate treatment and intervention. Below is an overview of common diagnostic procedures used to evaluate CHD:

What are the Different Treatment Approaches for Congenital Heart Defects?

The treatment depends on the severity of the defect and whether it is cyanotic or acyanotic. Treatment options include:

Medicated Treatment

Medications are often used to manage symptoms or prepare for more invasive interventions. In some cases, CHD can be controlled with medications, especially in less severe cases. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs may help manage minor symptoms. More specific treatments include:

• Diuretics: Help reduce excess fluid in the body, especially in cases where the heart is not pumping efficiently.

• Blood Thinners: Used in certain defects to prevent clot formation.

• ACE Inhibitors: Help relax blood vessels, reducing strain on the heart.

Medicated treatment is often part of ongoing care for CHD patients, helping to control the condition while awaiting further interventions or to stabilize the patient.

Interventional Treatment

Interventional treatments are typically performed when surgery is not immediately required. These procedures are minimally invasive and can provide a quick solution for specific heart defects:

• Balloon Angioplasty: A catheter with a balloon is inserted into a narrowed artery or vessel to widen it and improve blood flow. This is common in defects like Coarctation of the Aorta.

• Device Closure: In cases like Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) or Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), a catheter can be used to place a device that seals the hole in the heart, preventing further complications without the need for open-heart surgery.

• Stent Placement: Similar to angioplasty, a stent may be inserted to keep a narrowed artery open, improving blood flow.

These interventional procedures offer an effective alternative to traditional surgery for certain conditions, with shorter recovery times and fewer risks.Used to close holes (ASD/VSD), widen narrowed valves, or block abnormal vessels

Surgical Treatment

Surgical intervention is often necessary for more severe or complex cases of CHD. This can involve open-heart surgery or less invasive techniques:

• Open Heart Surgery: The most common form of surgery for CHD, it involves directly repairing or replacing heart valves, closing defects, or reshaping blood vessels to restore normal heart function. This is often required for conditions like Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) or Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA).

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: For some conditions, smaller incisions and robotic surgery techniques may be used to correct defects with less trauma and a faster recovery time.

• Heart Transplantation: In cases where the heart function is severely compromised and other treatments have failed, a heart transplant may be necessary.

Surgical treatment is typically considered for moderate to severe CHD and provides the best long-term outcome in terms of improving heart function and overall quality of life.

What are the Benefits of Surgical Correction in CHD?

Surgical intervention for congenital heart disease is often life-saving and can dramatically enhance both survival rates and quality of life. When performed at the right time, especially during childhood, surgery helps restore normal heart function, supports physical development, and prevents future complications. With advancements in pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery, most children go on to live active, fulfilling lives.

Key Benefits of Surgical Treatment for CHD

How to Prevent Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)?

While not all cases of CHD can be prevented—especially those with genetic causes—certain steps can reduce the risk during pregnancy:

• Maintain Good Prenatal Care

Regular check-ups during pregnancy help detect and manage maternal health issues early.

• Control Blood Sugar Levels

Women with diabetes should ensure strict glycemic control before and during pregnancy.

• Avoid Harmful Substances

Steer clear of alcohol, tobacco, and non-prescribed medications during pregnancy.

• Ensure Rubella Vaccination

Get immunized before pregnancy to prevent viral infections that can harm fetal heart development.

• Limit Exposure to Radiation and Chemicals

Avoid unnecessary radiologic tests and exposure to harmful substances during early pregnancy.

• Folic Acid Supplementation

Taking folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy may help reduce birth defects, including heart issues.

• Understand Family History

If there’s a history of CHD, consider genetic counseling to assess the risk in future pregnancies.

What are the Recovery Tips After CHD Treatment?

• Follow Medical Advice Closely

Attend all follow-up appointments and stick to the medication schedule.

• Encourage Rest with Gentle Activity

Allow the body to heal with proper rest, gradually introducing light movement as advised.

• Watch for Warning Signs

Report symptoms like fever, swelling, poor feeding, or breathing difficulties promptly.

• Support Emotional Well-being

Provide reassurance and maintain a calm environment for children.

• Ensure Nutritional Support

Focus on heart-healthy meals that aid growth and recovery.

• Maintain Hygiene

Keep surgical wounds clean and dry to prevent infection.

• Promote Routine

Help children return to daily routines like school or play when cleared.

• Stay Vaccinated

Ensure immunizations are up to date, especially after surgical interventions.

• Connect with a Specialist

Seek pediatric cardiology advice for ongoing heart health planning.

Get Advanced CHD Treatment from Leading Pediatric Cardiologists in Gurgaon

Artemis Heart Centre is a trusted destination for comprehensive congenital heart disease (CHD) care, offering world-class facilities for both children and adults. With a focus on accurate diagnosis, timely intervention, and lifelong management, our center is equipped to handle both simple and complex heart defects using a multidisciplinary approach.

We offer cutting-edge non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs—ensuring better quality of life and long-term heart health.

Book an Appointment

To consult our CHD experts, call us at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp +91-9599285476.
You can also book online via our website or the Artemis Personal Health Record App, available on iOS and Android.

Reviewed By Dr. D.K. Jhamb
Chief - Cardiology
Artemis Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can congenital heart defects be cured?

Some congenital heart defects can be completely corrected through surgery or catheter-based procedures, while others require lifelong management and monitoring.

How does CHD affect daily life?

Depending on the severity, CHD can limit physical activity, cause fatigue or breathlessness, and may require ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Who is the best doctor near me for CHD treatment?

Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon has a team of experienced pediatric and adult cardiologists who specialize in CHD. Contact us to consult a suitable expert for your condition.

Which is the best hospital for CHD treatment in Gurgaon?

Artemis Heart Centre offers comprehensive CHD care, from advanced diagnostics and fetal screening to interventional and surgical correction, all under one roof.

What factors affect the cost of CHD treatment in Gurgaon?

Congenital heart disease treatment cost depends on the type of heart defect, diagnostic tests, treatment method (surgical or catheter-based), hospital stay, and long-term follow-up needs.

Whom should I consult for CHD in Gurgaon?

For CHD, consult a pediatric cardiologist or a cardiothoracic surgeon depending on the patient's age and defect type. Early consultation leads to better outcomes.

How often are check-ups required after CHD treatment?

Check-ups may range from every few months to annually, depending on the treatment and condition. Lifelong follow-up is often recommended for complex CHDs.

Can CHD be prevented?

While most CHDs are not preventable, early screening during pregnancy, avoiding harmful substances, managing maternal health, and genetic counseling can reduce risk.

What are the treatment options for complex CHD cases?

Treatment may involve a combination of medication, interventional catheterization, or staged surgeries to improve heart function and quality of life.

Does CHD cause pain?

CHD itself may not cause pain, but related symptoms like breathlessness, chest discomfort, or fatigue may occur in moderate to severe cases.