Adult congenital heart disease refers to heart defects that were present at birth and continue to require attention in adulthood. Some patients had childhood surgery or catheter procedures, while others are diagnosed later in life.
Even repaired congenital heart disease can be associated with arrhythmias, valve problems, chamber enlargement, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, or exercise limitations. Lifelong follow-up is often important.
Symptoms patients may notice
- Shortness of breath, fatigue, or reduced exercise capacity
- Palpitations, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting
- Blue lips or fingers in selected conditions
- Swelling, chest discomfort, or heart murmur
- History of repaired or unrepaired congenital heart defect
How we evaluate this condition
- Review of prior childhood records, surgical history, and imaging when available
- EKG, echocardiogram, rhythm monitoring, stress testing, or advanced imaging when appropriate
- Risk assessment for arrhythmia, valve disease, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure
- Referral coordination with an adult congenital heart disease center when specialized care is needed
Treatment and care options
- Medication management for rhythm, heart failure, or blood clot risk when appropriate
- Ongoing imaging and rhythm surveillance
- Coordination for catheter-based or surgical repair when indicated
- Pregnancy counseling, exercise counseling, heart procedure, and long-term care planning as clinically appropriate
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 for fainting, severe chest pain, severe shortness of breath, stroke-like symptoms, or blue discoloration with distress.