Medical information
Heart defects in children and young people can vary widely—from simple to complex. Whether your child was born with a congenital heart condition, developed an acquired condition, or has a genetic syndrome, understanding their diagnosis is the first step toward managing their care.
A brief overview
Congenital heart conditions
Congenital heart defects (CHD) are structural issues with the heart or blood vessels that are present at birth. These conditions can vary widely in severity, from small defects that require no treatment to complex issues needing surgery or ongoing care. With advances in medicine, many children with CHD go on to lead full, active lives. Examples include:
- septal defects (holes in the heart)
- pulmonary stenosis (narrowing of the pulmonary valve or artery)
- hypoplastic left or right heart syndromes (underdeveloped heart chambers)
Acquired heart conditions
Acquired heart conditions develop after birth, often due to illness or infection. Though less common in children, these conditions require early diagnosis and management to prevent long-term complications. Examples include:
- Kawasaki disease: Causes inflammation of blood vessels and can lead to coronary artery damage.
- Rheumatic heart disease: Results from untreated streptococcal infections, potentially causing valve damage.
Inherited heart conditions
Inherited cardiac conditions are genetic disorders passed through families that affect the heart’s rhythm or structure. These conditions can emerge at any age and sometimes present no symptoms until later in life. Examples include:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Thickening of the heart muscle that can affect pumping
Pacemakers and treatments
Learn about pacemakers, how they work, and what to expect if your child needs one. Discover answers to common treatment questions.
Glossary of terms
A comprehensive glossary explains key medical terms and procedures, making it easier to understand your child’s condition and the care they receive.
Get involved
Make a difference in the lives of heart families! Whether you’d like to fundraise, volunteer, or become a corporate partner, there are so many ways to get involved with CHT.
News and community
Stay connected with everything happening at Children’s Heartbeat Trust—from heart families’ inspiring stories to updates on our programmes and upcoming events.