What are the symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus in newborns?

The main symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus in newborns include shortness of breath, feeding difficulties and slow weight gain. In severe cases, heart failure may occur, and timely medical treatment is required. Treatment methods include drug therapy, surgical treatment and interventional treatment.

1. Shortness of breath is one of the common symptoms of congenital patent ductus arteriosus. Since patent ductus arteriosus causes blood to flow from the aorta to the pulmonary artery, increasing the blood flow to the lungs, the respiratory rate of the newborn is accelerated, which manifests as shortness of breath. Parents should closely observe the breathing of the newborn. If any abnormality is found, they need to seek medical attention in time.

2. Feeding difficulties are also a typical symptom of the disease. Newborns are prone to fatigue during sucking, which leads to prolonged feeding time or insufficient intake. Parents should choose a suitable feeding method, such as feeding in small amounts and multiple times, and using special nipples or feeding aids when necessary.

3. Slow weight gain is another important symptom of patent ductus arteriosus. Due to the increased burden on the heart, the growth and development of the newborn are affected, resulting in weight gain lower than normal. Parents should regularly monitor the weight changes of the newborn. If any abnormality is found, they need to consult in time.

4. Heart failure is a serious complication of patent ductus arteriosus. Due to long-term overload of the heart, heart failure may occur, which is manifested by symptoms such as pale face, cold limbs, and accelerated heart rate. Once these symptoms occur, you should seek medical attention immediately for emergency treatment.

In terms of drug treatment, commonly used drugs include prostaglandin inhibitors such as indomethacin, which are used to promote closure of the ductus arteriosus; diuretics such as furosemide, which are used to reduce the burden on the heart; and cardiotonic drugs such as digoxin, which are used to improve heart function. In terms of surgical treatment, common methods include ductus arteriosus ligation, ductus arteriosus cutting and suturing, and ductus arteriosus occlusion. In terms of interventional treatment, commonly used methods include transcatheter ductus arteriosus occlusion and transcatheter ductus arteriosus embolization.

Congenital patent ductus arteriosus is a disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Parents should closely observe the changes in symptoms of the newborn. Once any abnormality is found, they should seek medical attention and receive professional treatment in time to ensure the healthy growth of the newborn.