What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment often involves open heart surgery to correct the heart defect. Sometimes more than one defect occurs at the same time and more than one operation is needed. With certain defects, medicine may be all that is needed. In others, no treatment other than observation is needed.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery to correct a heart defect can be simple or very complicated. Side effects of treatment depend on the severity of the defect. Some people recover completely, while others may still have a problem with high blood pressure and a very strained heart. The heart may not beat in a normal rhythm. Surgery itself can be very risky and sometimes fatal. Bleeding and infection may also occur.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

The person needs time to recover fully after surgery. Antibiotics to help fight infection and other medicines to help the heart may be given after surgery. Close monitoring of the heart and lungs is needed. Sometimes, a person will need more surgery later in life.

How is the disease monitored?

Regular visits to the doctor and regular testing are needed. This helps check that the heart is working properly and the lungs remain clear. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.