What is ventricular septal defect?
A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole in the wall that separates the two lower chambers of the heart. It’s a condition that a baby is born with (congenital).
Symptoms
The type of symptoms a child has and the severity of the symptoms depends on the size of the defect. Many children have symptoms from infancy. They can include:
- fatigue
- sweating
- rapid or heavy breathing
- congested breathing
- disinterest in feeding
- poor weight gain
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor may suspect a ventricular septal defect if he or she hears an abnormal heart sound or heart murmur when listening to your baby’s heart. Your doctor may also order other tests, including:
- electrocardiogram
- echocardiogram
Treatment
Small VSDs may not need any treatment. Some may close on their own as your child grows. Treatment options for larger VSDs may include medication to reduce symptoms, a procedure to patch the hole or surgery.
Learn more about Pediatric Cardiology services at Boston Children’s Health Physicians.
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