What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment varies, depending on the underlying defect that causes the cyanotic heart disease. Open heart surgery is often needed to repair the heart defect. In some cases, emergency surgery right after birth may be the only hope of survival. In other cases, surgery may be delayed for a year or more after birth. Oxygen can be given to help improve symptoms. Depending on the defect, different medicines may be used to improve heart function. A person who has cyanotic heart disease is at increased risk of developing infections of the heart wall or arteries. To decrease this risk, antibiotics may be prescribed before dental or surgical procedures.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Heart medicines may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, or arrhythmias.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

If the cyanotic heart disease can be treated with surgery or medicines, the outcome can be very good. More severe heart defects require lifelong treatment and monitoring.

How is the disease monitored?

Follow-up care is based on the underlying heart defect. Routine visits to the healthcare provider are made to check on status of the heart, the healing of the heart after surgery, and to adjust medicines if needed. The child's growth and development will be carefully monitored. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.