Causes of Congenital Heart Defects in Infants

Congenital heart defects in infants can be caused by a range of prenatal factors. These include maternal infections during pregnancy, exposure to high-risk environmental factors, gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and abnormal thyroid function during gestation. These conditions may interfere with normal heart development in the fetus and increase the risk of congenital heart disease.

Environmental and External Influences

Complications such as threatened miscarriage during early pregnancy or intrauterine exposure to viral infections can also contribute to the development of heart defects. Additionally, exposure to harmful substances like teratogenic drugs, certain foods, or physical and chemical agents—such as radiation—during the first trimester may significantly impact fetal heart formation. These external influences are particularly dangerous during the early stages of pregnancy when the baby's organs are developing.

Genetic and Hereditary Factors

Genetic mutations and hereditary traits play a crucial role in some cases of congenital heart disease. Infants who carry specific genetic mutations linked to heart defects or who come from families with a history of congenital heart disease are at a higher risk of developing similar conditions. In some instances, the cause may be a combination of inherited predispositions and environmental exposures, making it difficult to pinpoint a single factor.

Diagnosis and Next Steps

For infants diagnosed with congenital heart disease, it is essential to undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed echocardiogram, to determine the exact type and severity of the defect. Understanding the underlying cause can help guide treatment options and improve long-term outcomes. While some cases have clear origins, others remain unexplained, highlighting the complex interplay between genetics and environmental influences.