Patent Ductus Arteriosus

The symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus may not be evident immediately after birth. In some cases, the symptoms may be mild, while in others, they can be severe. Some of the common symptoms include-

• Rapid breathing
• Poor feeding
• Failure to thrive
• Sweating while feeding
• Difficulty breathing
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Heart murmur
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Poor growth

During fetal development, a small blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta, allowing blood to bypass the lungs. This connection is essential for fetal circulation, but in most cases, it closes shortly after birth. In some babies, however, the ductus arteriosus fails to close, causing blood to flow from the aorta to the pulmonary artery.

Additionally, several risk factors can also lead to the progression of the disease which can lead to the symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus. These risk factors include - 

• Premature birth
• Family history and other genetic conditions
• German measles during pregnancy
• Being born at a high altitude
• Being female

The diagnosis of Patent Ductus Arteriosus is typically made by a pediatrician or cardiologist. The doctor will perform a physical examination and listen to the baby's heart with a stethoscope. A heart murmur is often present in babies with PDA. Other tests that may be performed to confirm the diagnosis include - 

• Echocardiogram - This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart and blood vessels. It can help the doctor determine the size of the PDA and how much blood is flowing through it
• Chest X-ray - This test can help the doctor see if the heart is enlarged
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) - This test can help the doctor determine if the heart rhythm is normal

The treatment for Patent Ductus Arteriosus depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, the PDA may close on its own, and no treatment is needed. However, if the PDA is causing symptoms or is large, treatment may be necessary. Some of the common treatments include - 

• Medications - In some cases, medicines such as indomethacin or ibuprofen may be given to help close the PDA.
• Surgery - If medications do not work, surgery may be necessary to close the PDA. The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia and involves making a small incision in the chest to access the heart and blood vessels.
• Catheterization - In some cases, a catheter can be inserted into the blood vessel and guided to the PDA to close it. This is a less invasive procedure than surgery and is typically done under local anesthesia.

BM Birla Heart Research Centre is among the best cardiac hospitals specializing in cardiac healthcare services. We have incorporated a team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who have years of experience in their field. They are highly talented and skilled with technology. Our doctors ensure diagnosing the condition first so that the best treatment is offered to the patients. They ensure identifying the needs of a patient so that they are fulfilled capably. So, if you experience symptoms of heart failure or have had one, consult our cardiologists now.