Causes of Congenital Heart Defects in Children

Congenital heart disease, also known as congenital heart defects, can occur due to a variety of factors that affect the development of the heart during fetal growth. These factors can be broadly categorized into genetic, maternal, environmental, and unknown causes.

Genetic Factors

One of the primary causes of congenital heart defects is genetic predisposition. In some cases, a family history of heart defects or inherited genetic mutations can increase the likelihood of a child being born with a heart condition. These genetic changes can interfere with the normal development of the heart during early pregnancy.

Maternal Health Conditions

Advanced Maternal Age and Pregnancy Complications

Maternal factors also play a significant role in the development of congenital heart disease. Women who become pregnant at an older age are at a higher risk of having a baby with heart defects. Additionally, pregnancy-related conditions such as gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction can increase the risk. These conditions may affect blood flow and oxygen supply to the developing fetus, impacting heart formation.

Infections and Early Pregnancy Threats

Exposure to viral infections during the first trimester, such as rubella or cytomegalovirus, can significantly affect the development of the fetal heart. Moreover, women who experience threatened miscarriage early in pregnancy and undergo medical interventions to preserve the pregnancy may also have a higher risk of delivering a baby with congenital heart issues.

Environmental Exposures

Environmental factors, including exposure to radiation, toxic substances, or certain medications during pregnancy, can also lead to congenital heart defects. Some drugs are known to be teratogens—substances that can interfere with fetal development. Pregnant women should be cautious about their exposure to harmful chemicals and always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

Unknown Causes

In many cases, the exact cause of congenital heart defects remains unclear. It is often believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and maternal factors contributes to the condition. Researchers continue to study these interactions to better understand how heart defects develop and how they might be prevented in the future.