What are the early signs of congenital heart defect in babies?

Early signs of congenital heart defect include repeated chest infections, feeding problems accompanied by sweating, and unsatisfactory weight gain.

What does blueness in a baby's extremities signify?

Blueness in a baby's fingers, toes, or lips is an important indicator of severe heart disease and requires urgent medical attention.

How are congenital heart defects diagnosed and treated?

Congenital heart defects are diagnosed through echocardiography and treated by paediatric cardiologists, often involving medication and surgical procedures.

Home / Health / Babies' Blue Skin? It Could Be Heart Disease

Babies' Blue Skin? It Could Be Heart Disease

14 Feb

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Summary

Repeated chest infections and poor weight gain can signal heart defects.
Blueness in a baby's extremities or lips indicates severe heart disease.
Echocardiography and pediatric cardiologists are crucial for diagnosis.

Babies' Blue Skin? It Could Be Heart Disease

Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) is a structural heart problem present from birth that affects blood flow. While some CHDs are minor, others can be life-threatening, requiring multiple surgeries over years. Parents should be aware of early signs, which can include frequent chest infections, difficulties during feeding accompanied by sweating, and unsatisfactory weight gain in infants.

More concerning symptoms include a child being unable to keep pace with peers during play, which may suggest the heart cannot handle exertion. A significant indicator of severe heart disease is blueness in the baby's fingers, toes, or lips, especially when persistent and not solely due to cold exposure. Such signs necessitate urgent medical attention and consultation with a paediatrician or cardiologist.