Secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) is a heart defect present at birth where there is a hole in the wall (septum) between the two upper chambers of the heart, the atria. Specifically, the hole is located in the secundum part of the atrial septum, which is the lower part of the septum.
Understanding Secundum ASD
- Location: Secundum ASDs are found in the lower part of the atrial septum, in the area where the foramen ovale, a natural hole in the fetal heart, normally closes after birth.
- Size: Secundum ASDs can range in size from small to large.
- Symptoms: Many people with small secundum ASDs have no symptoms and live normal lives. Larger holes can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart palpitations.
Causes of Secundum ASD
Secundum ASDs are usually caused by a developmental anomaly during fetal development. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Secundum ASDs are usually diagnosed during a routine physical exam or when a child experiences symptoms.
- Diagnosis: Doctors may use an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to diagnose a secundum ASD.
- Treatment: Small secundum ASDs may not require treatment. Larger holes may be repaired with a catheter-based procedure or open-heart surgery.
Living with Secundum ASD
- Lifestyle: People with secundum ASDs can often live normal lives with regular follow-up care.
- Complications: While many people with secundum ASDs have no complications, some may develop heart failure or stroke in later life.
