Ventricular Septal Defect Symptoms and Clinical Presentation

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is one of the most common types of congenital heart disease. Depending on the size of the defect, VSD can be categorized into small, moderate, and large. The clinical manifestations vary significantly based on the size of the defect and the resulting hemodynamic changes.

Understanding Small Ventricular Septal Defects

Small VSDs often do not cause noticeable symptoms. Patients usually develop normally without any impact on their growth or daily activities. In most cases, the condition is detected during a routine physical examination when a heart murmur is heard through a stethoscope. These murmurs are typically caused by the abnormal flow of blood through the heart.

Moderate to Large VSDs: What to Expect

Moderate and large VSDs lead to significant left-to-right shunting of blood, which can result in increased pulmonary blood flow and reduced systemic circulation. This often leads to early signs and symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath during physical activity, and difficulty feeding — especially in infants. Growth may be affected, with patients often appearing underweight and smaller compared to their peers.

Common Symptoms and Complications

Individuals with larger defects are more prone to frequent respiratory infections due to increased lung congestion. In addition, they may experience signs of congestive heart failure, such as rapid breathing, poor weight gain, and swelling in the legs or abdomen. On physical examination, a loud and easily detectable heart murmur is often present, along with signs of an enlarged heart.

Diagnosis and Physical Findings

During a clinical evaluation, healthcare providers may observe an enlarged cardiac silhouette and abnormal heart sounds. Diagnostic tools such as echocardiography are essential for confirming the size and location of the defect, as well as assessing the impact on heart function.