Ventricular Septal Defect

VSD Symptoms in India - Signs of Ventricular Septal Defect You Should Know

A ventricular septal defect, or VSD, is a hole in the wall between the heart's two lower chambers. This short explains the common signs and symptoms that may appear, particularly in infants and young children.

Understanding a VSD

A VSD is a type of congenital heart defect, meaning it is present at birth. The size of the hole affects how blood flows through the heart and lungs.

• Small defects. Many VSDs are small and may not cause any problems. They are often discovered when a doctor hears a heart murmur during a routine check-up.
• Larger defects. A medium or large VSD allows a significant amount of oxygen-rich blood to pass from the left ventricle back to the right ventricle and into the lungs. This can cause the heart and lungs to work harder.
• Spontaneous closure. Some small VSDs, particularly those in the muscular part of the septum, may close on their own during childhood.

Signs and symptoms in infants and children

Symptoms of a moderate to large VSD usually appear within the first few weeks or months of life.

• Poor feeding. An infant may tire easily during feeding, or sweat and breathe rapidly while trying to eat.
• Slow growth. Because of the extra energy used for breathing and the difficulty with feeding, a baby may not gain weight at a typical rate. This is sometimes called 'failure to thrive'.
• Fast breathing. You may notice your child is breathing faster than normal or appears short of breath.
• Frequent infections. Children with larger VSDs may be more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Diagnosis and next steps

A diagnosis is usually confirmed with an ultrasound of the heart.

• Physical examination. The first sign is often a distinct heart murmur heard through a stethoscope.
• Echocardiogram. This is the primary test used to diagnose a VSD. It uses sound waves to create a detailed picture of the heart, showing the hole's size and location.
• Other tests. A chest X-ray or an electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be used to see how the VSD is affecting the heart and lungs.

The suitability of any treatment depends on the type and size of the VSD, the symptoms it causes, and your child's age and general health. A specialist must review all medical reports and recent imaging to advise on the best course of action.