Congenital Heart Disease Symptoms
Some heart defects are present from birth. These are known as congenital heart diseases [9]. They do not always show symptoms and some cases are not diagnosed until adulthood. Common symptoms of congenital heart disease in children include:
- Slow weight gain and poor appetite
- Bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, and fingernails
- Rapid breathing and constant lung infections
In adults, the symptoms may be different, where they sometimes resemble those of other heart diseases. The most common symptoms are:
- Shortness of breath
- Not being able to exercise well
Conclusion
Not all heart problems are outright signs of heart disease. Even if you experience symptoms that seem like any of these conditions, you should see a doctor for tests. As shown here, heart symptoms often overlap. Only a proper diagnosis can definitively reveal the exact heart problem you have. Some heart diseases can be treated completely while some are chronic conditions that can only be managed. The best way to increase your chance of survival is to detect it early.
References:
[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16898-coronary-artery-disease
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-arrhythmia/symptoms-causes/syc-20350668
[3] https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-are-the-symptoms-of-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af
[4] https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/valvular_disease.htm
[5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142
[6] https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-heart-attacks
[7] https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/symptoms-and-diagnosis-of-cardiomyopathy
[8] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17353-pericarditis
[9] https://www.healthline.com/health/congenital-heart-disease