So what is a Congenital Heart Defect (also known as CHD)? The American Heart Association explains it as...
"A normal heart has valves, arteries and chambers that carry the blood in a circulatory pattern: body-heart-lungs-heart-body. When all chambers and valves work correctly, the blood is pumped through the heart, to the lungs for oxygen, back the heart and out to the body for delivery of oxygen. When valves, chambers, arteries and veins are malformed, this circulation pattern can be impaired. Congenital heart defects are malformations that are present at birth. They may or may not have a disruptive effect on a person's circulatory system.
Congenital heart defects are structural problems with the heart present at birth. They result when a mishap occurs during heart development soon after conception and often before the mother is aware that she is pregnant. Defects range in severity from simple problems, such as "holes" between chambers of the heart, to very severe malformations, such as complete absence of one or more chambers or valves.
Having a congenital heart defect can also increase your risk of developing certain medical conditions.
Associated Conditions
Having a congenital heart defect can increase your risk of developing certain medical conditions.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Arrhythmias
Infective Endocarditis
Anticoagulation
Congestive Heart Failure. "
You can read more from this article here. CHD affects 1 in 100 babies born. Not a lot is known why a CHD forms or how it can be prevented but there have been numerous medical advances to help save the lives of children born with a CHD. Our Abby is a true miracle girl. She constantly inspires our family to live each day to the fullest and to see the beauty and good in all things. And in her words "staying awesome in everything!" CHD may not be able to be prevented but it can definitely be fought and overcome.
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