Causes of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

A persistent opening between the two main blood arteries emerging from the heart is known as the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The ductus arteriosus, an ordinary opening in a baby’s circulatory system while in the womb, often closes soon after delivery. It is known as a patent ductus arteriosus if it stays open.

Causes

Congenital heart defects result from issues early in the development of the heart, however there is frequently no known reason. A role for genetic variables is possible.

A connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery, two important blood vessels that emerge from the heart, is required for a baby's blood circulation before birth. As a baby's lungs grow, the link redirects blood away from them while the newborn obtains oxygen from the mother's circulation.

The ductus arteriosus typically shuts two to three days after delivery. Infants who are premature may take longer to close the opening. It is known as a patent ductus arteriosus if the link stays open.

An excessive amount of blood flows to the infant's heart and lungs because of the improper aperture. If left untreated, pulmonary hypertension in the infant may worsen, and the infant's heart may grow and weaken.

Risk factors

birth before term. Compared to newborns born at full term, premature babies are more likely to develop a patent ductus arteriosus.

Family history and other genetic disorders. PDA risk is increased by a family history of heart abnormalities and other genetic disorders like Down syndrome.

infection with rubella during pregnant. If you get German measles (rubella) when you're pregnant, your unborn child is more likely to have heart problems. The rubella virus enters the foetus through the placenta and travels throughout its circulatory system, harming its heart and other vital organs as well as blood vessels.

being high-altitude birth. Babies born at higher altitudes—above 8,200 feet (2,499 meters)—have a higher risk of developing PDA.

being a woman

Patent ductus arteriosus and pregnancy

Pregnancy is typically not problematic for women with modest patent ductus arteriosus. The risk of problems during pregnancy can be raised by having a bigger defect or consequences, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or pulmonary hypertension. Pregnancy should be avoided if you have Eisenmenger syndrome since it can be fatal.

If you have a heart defect, whether it has been corrected or not, talk to your doctor about family planning. Preconception consults with medical professionals with expertise in congenital cardiology, genetics, and high-risk obstetric care may occasionally be required. Some heart drugs may need to be stopped or changed before you become pregnant because they can have major negative effects on an unborn child. To know more about Fetal echo test price Pitampura, visit Fetal Heart Care.