Living with a Hole in the Heart: The Reality of Congenital Heart Defects in Adults

For a lot of people, a heart defect is something that’s discovered and treated in childhood. But what often goes unnoticed is that thousands of adults today are living with congenital heart defects (CHD) as some are diagnosed late, others left untreated since birth. One of the most common among them is a “hole in the heart,” a term used for conditions like atrial or ventricular septal defects, where abnormal openings allow blood to pass between the chambers of the heart. The idea of living with a “hole in the heart” sounds dramatic to many people and is something that is rarely found. However, congenital heart defects (CHDs) are far more common than most people realize. These defects are structural problems present since birth, which often become noticeable much later in life.

The Silent Strain on the Heart

Dr Rasheed Ahmed, Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur describes, “A congenital heart defect is a condition in which a hole exists in the wall separating the heart's chambers, such as an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) or Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). This creates a passage between the heart’s chambers that is not normal and leads to the mixing of the oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This can make the heart work harder than it should over time, which is why the body compensates for years, and adults remain unaware until problems like fatigue, breathlessness, or an irregular heartbeat begin to affect their daily life.”
However, living with a heart condition not only affects physical health but also leads to emotional stress, anxiety, or a sense of uncertainty. Hence, managing CHD requires balance, activeness, optimism, and staying alert without being fearful or causing overexertion to the body.

ALSO READ- Ventricular Septal Defect In Newborns: What It Is And How To Treat It?

Symptoms of Congenital Heart Defects in Adults to Watch Out For

Some people discover CHD during routine health check-ups, whereas others may experience symptoms only after years of leading seemingly normal lives. Recognizing the warning signs early can prevent complications and help to maintain heart health. Dr Ahmed lists out potential symptoms that you have a hole in the heart:

• Unnecessary Suffocation: Even slight movement causing tiredness or resulting in breathlessness or fatigue should be taken seriously.
• Irregular Heartbeat: Feeling of the heart skipping beats or racing faster is considered a big warning sign.
• Swelling: Swelling in body parts like ankles, feet, or abdomen can indicate poor circulation of blood or fluid buildup in the heart.
• Bluish Lips or Fingertips: The colour of lips or nails turning blue is the sign of low oxygen levels in the blood.
• Fainting or Dizziness: The feeling of weakness or consistent blackouts might be due to rhythm or blood flow disturbances in the heart.

ALSO READ- Can Children Outgrow Heart Defects? Here Is What Parents Need To Know

Treatment Options Available For Congenital Heart Diseases

Living with a congenital heart defect doesn’t mean living in limitation, and people live productive and powerful lives with awareness and right care. Regular check-ups can detect and treat changes early.

According to Dr Ahmed, “Depending on the defect, treatment and care should be taken. Surgical options such as ASD closure and VSD closure might be the last option in extremely unfavourable situations. Long-term treatment includes medications, cardiac rehabilitation, and lifestyle management practices like stress control, mild exercise, and a heart-healthy diet.”

Final Word

Awareness, early diagnosis, and specialized cardiac follow-up can prevent complications and ensure a good quality of life. Living with a “hole in the heart” may begin as a childhood condition, but with proper management, it doesn’t have to define one’s adulthood. After all, the heart can have its imperfections, yet its ability to adapt, endure, and continue to work proves that strength is not only measured in beats per minute, but also in resilience over time.