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This website was created to provide the families of congenital heart defects patients with up-to-date information about heart abnormalities at birth and and more specifically about Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). A ventricular septal defect is an opening in the ventricular septum, or dividing wall between the two lower chambers of the heart known as the right and left ventricles. VSD is a congenital (present at birth) heart defect. As the fetus is growing, something occurs to affect the heart development during the first 8 weeks of pregnancy, resulting in a VSD. A VSD is also called a "hole in heart." This website includes the latest information on ventricular septal defects' symptoms, causes and risk factors. Although the exact cause of VSD is unknown, exposure to genetics, the environment, and the use of antidepressants, such as Paxil during the first trimester play a role. The consequences of VSD depend on the size of the hole in the heart and therefore it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. The Treatment Options section describes the different types of treatments such as surgery. In our Medical Financial Aid and Assistance section, we discuss how patients and their families may be helped with medical bills and financial concerns. In our Coping section we discuss the emotional and physically limiting issues as they relate to VSD. Because some VSDs are linked to the usage of antidepressant during the first 3 months of pregnancy, see our Paxil & SVD and FDA Warning section. To navigate our site, use the links to the left. |
