Congenital Heart Defects - Causes - Causes

Congenital heart defects happen because the heart does not develop normally while the baby is growing in the womb. Doctors often do not know why congenital heart defects occur. Researchers do know that genetics can sometimes play a role.

Genetics
- Congenital Heart Defects - Causes

It is common for congenital heart defects to occur because of changes in the child’s DNA. The changes in the DNA may or may not have come from the parents.

Rarely, congenital heart defects are caused by particular genes that are inherited from the parents. That means a parent who has a congenital heart defect may have an increased risk of having a child with the defect.

Look for
- Congenital Heart Defects - Causes

  • Risk Factors will discuss medical conditions that can increase the risk of having a baby with a congenital heart defect.
  • Treatment will discuss medicines and surgery that your or your child’s doctor may recommend if you or your child is diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.