What are the symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus in newborns?

Patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart disease, which is mainly manifested by dyspnea, cyanosis, rapid heartbeat and other symptoms, and requires prompt medical attention. Treatment methods include drug therapy, surgical intervention and regular follow-up.

1. Breathing difficulties. The failure of the ductus arteriosus to close in newborns may lead to increased pulmonary blood flow, causing breathing difficulties, manifested as rapid breathing, labored breathing or wheezing. Parents should pay attention to their children's breathing rate and status, and seek medical attention in time if any abnormality is found.

2. Cyanosis. Because the ductus arteriosus is not closed, blood may flow from the aorta to the pulmonary artery, resulting in insufficient systemic blood oxygen, which manifests as blue skin, lips or nail beds. Cyanosis is a sign of severe hypoxia and requires immediate medical attention.

3. Increased heart rate. To compensate for the blood diversion, the heart may beat faster to maintain normal blood supply, which manifests as increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat. Parents can detect abnormalities by monitoring the heart rate and seek medical help if necessary.

4. Developmental delay. Long-term excessive heart burden may affect the growth and development of newborns, manifested as slow weight gain, feeding difficulties or fatigue. Parents need to pay attention to their children's growth curves and consult in time if any abnormalities are found.

5. Susceptible to infection. Abnormal heart function may reduce immunity and make newborns more susceptible to respiratory infections or other diseases. Parents should pay attention to hygiene protection, prevent children from contacting sources of infection, and seek timely treatment if symptoms of infection are found.

Treatment methods include medication, surgical intervention, and regular follow-up. Medication often uses prostaglandin synthase inhibitors, such as indomethacin or ibuprofen, to help close the ductus arteriosus. Surgical intervention includes ductus ligation or ductus occlusion, which is suitable for patients who are ineffective with medication or have severe conditions. Regular follow-up can monitor changes in the condition and adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner.

Patent ductus arteriosus in newborns should be taken seriously. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis. Parents need to closely observe their children's symptoms, seek medical treatment in a timely manner, and follow the doctor's treatment recommendations to ensure the healthy growth of their children.