Atrial Septal Defect(ASD; “Hole” in the Heart)Pronounced: AY-tree-uhl SEP-tull DEE-fect
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Diana Kohnle DefinitionAn atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in heart. It is in the wall between the left and right upper chambers of the heart. Blood can flow through this hole. This will make it hard for the heart to work well. It can also lead to a backup of fluids in the lungs.
CausesASD happens as the baby grows in the uterus. It is not always known why the wall does not grow as it should. Factors that may play a role include:
Risk FactorsThe chances of ASD are higher if the mother:
SymptomsSmall holes may not cause immediate symptoms. They may cause problems once the child is more active in later life. Symptoms caused by ASD may include: For older children and adults:
For babies (rare):
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam may be done. The doctor may hear a murmur while listening to the heart. The doctor may suspect ASD based on symptoms. An echocardiogram can confirm the diagnosis. ASD can make the right side of the heart larger. This can lead to other health issues. To look for changes to the heart your doctor may also do the following:
TreatmentNot all ASD will make the heart and lungs work harder. These may not need treatment. The heart will be checked during checkups for any changes. Your care team will look for any changes in heart size or abnormal heart rhythms. ASD in infants may close on their own by 3 to 5 years of age. ASD with heart changes may need to limit certain activity. Those with smaller holes or no effects on the heart can often do all activities. Holes that are causing stress to the heart and lungs will need treatment. The hole will be sealed with surgery or a device. Options include:
PreventionThere is no way to prevent ASD since the cause is unknown. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org Family Doctor—American Association of Family Physicians https://familydoctor.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Adult Congenital Heart Network http://www.cachnet.org Heart and Stroke Foundation http://www.heartandstroke.ca References:Atrial septal defect. Kids Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated September 2016. Accessed July 25, 2018. Atrial septal defect (ASD). American Heart Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated January 19, 2018. Accessed July 25, 2018.
Atrial septal defects. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
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Updated December 27, 2017. Accessed July 25, 2018.
Last reviewed May 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael J. Fucci, DO, FACC Last Updated: 7/25/2018 |
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