Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Flashcards
What does ASD stand for?
Atrial Septal Defect
What is an ASD?
An ASD is a hole in the atrial septum
The hole/ASD can _____ in _____ and may _____ on its own or require _____.
The hole/ASD can vary in size and may close on its own or require surgery.
What is the cause of ASD? (Steps 1, 2a, and 2b)
- As a baby’s heart develops during pregnancy, there are several openings in the atrial septum
2a. Normally, these openings close during pregnancy or shortly after birth
2b. However, if one of these openings does not close, a hole remains, which is an ASD
An ASD is _____ at birth, but _____ babies do not have any _____ or______
An ASD is present at birth, but many babies do not have signs or symptoms
What are some signs and symptoms of ASD? (4)
-Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath when physically active
-Skipped heartbeats
-Heart murmur
-Swelling of legs, feet, or stomach area
What is a heart murmur?
A heart murmur is a whooshing sound that can be heard in the heart with a stethoscope due to irregular blood flow through the heart.
What do treatments for ASD depend on? (3)
Treatments for ASD depend on:
-Age
-Seriousness/size of ASD
-Other conditions
Treatments for ASD include… (2)
Treatments for ASD include:
-Surgery (to close the hole)
-Medications (to help treat symptoms)
If a child is diagnosed with ASD, what is one of the things that the healthcare provider may look for?
If a child is diagnosed with ASD, the healthcare provider may wait to see if the ASD closes on its own.
What are some long-term effects of ASD? (3)
Some long-term effects of ASD include:
-High BP in the lungs
-Heart failure
-Arrhythmia
Is an ASD a critical CHD?
No
What is arrhythmia?
Arrhythmia is the condition of having an irregular heartbeat.
