Is patent ductus arteriosus serious in children?

Patent ductus arteriosus in children is a congenital heart disease, the severity of which depends on the size of the unclosed ductus and whether it is accompanied by other heart problems. In mild cases, there may be no symptoms, but in severe cases, it may cause abnormal heart function and requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment. Treatment methods include medication, surgery, and interventional therapy, and the specific choice should be determined based on the child's condition.

1. Causes of patent ductus arteriosus in children

The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that connects the aorta and the pulmonary artery during the fetal period and usually closes within a few days to weeks after birth. The reasons for non-closure may be related to genetics, environmental factors or abnormal fetal development. Genetic factors such as a family history of congenital heart disease and environmental factors such as infection during pregnancy, drug exposure or maternal diabetes may increase the risk of disease. During fetal development, if the ductus arteriosus does not close on time, it may be related to hormone levels or abnormal vascular development.

2. Symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus in children

Mild patent closure may not cause obvious symptoms, and only a heart murmur may be found during a physical examination. In severe cases, the child may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, difficulty feeding, slow weight gain, and fatigue. Long-term untreated closure may lead to complications such as pulmonary hypertension and heart failure, and medical attention should be sought promptly.

3. Treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in children

Treatment methods include medication, surgery, and interventional therapy. Medication usually uses nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or indomethacin to promote ductal closure. Surgical methods include open-chest surgery and minimally invasive surgery to directly ligate or cut off the unclosed duct. Interventional therapy uses catheter technology to close the duct using an occluder, which is less invasive and has a quick recovery. The specific treatment plan needs to be determined based on the child's age, duct size, and physical condition.

4. Daily care for patent ductus arteriosus in children

Children need regular follow-up to monitor heart function and growth. They should ensure a balanced diet and avoid high-salt and high-fat foods. Appropriate exercise can help strengthen the body, but avoid strenuous exercise. Parents need to pay attention to changes in symptoms in their children and seek medical attention in a timely manner if any abnormalities are found.

The severity of patent ductus arteriosus in children varies from person to person and needs to be evaluated and treated according to the specific situation. Early detection and intervention are key, and parents should work closely to ensure that their children receive the best treatment and care. Through scientific treatment and daily management, most children have a good prognosis and can live and grow normally.