Congenital Heart Defects: When To Call A Doctor

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When To Call a Doctor

Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if your child has severe difficulty breathing, faints, or has seizures.

Call your health professional immediately if your child with a congenital heart defect has:

• Symptoms of heart failure or cyanosis—the bluish tint that affects skin, lips, and nails because of lack of oxygen—that become significantly worse within a short time period.
• Symptoms of endocarditis, such as a fever that will not go away.

Talk to your doctor if your child with a congenital heart defect has:

• Moderate difficulty breathing.
• Fewer wet diapers and has swelling (puffy eyes, hands, and feet).
• A poor appetite and is not eating well or has a rapid heartbeat or rapid breathing while eating.
• Less energy or seems to be sleeping more than usual.
• Sudden weight gain or is not gaining weight.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting, which is a wait-and-see approach, is not appropriate if:

• You think your child has a congenital heart defect.
• Your child has a congenital heart defect and the symptoms change.

Who To See

The following health professionals can evaluate symptoms of a congenital heart defect:

• Pediatrician
• Pediatric cardiologist
• Family medicine physician
• Internist (for adults with possible congenital heart disease)
• Physician assistant
• Nurse practitioner

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

Last updated:	October 25, 2007
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC