Atrial septal defect is categorized as a congenital heart defect and commonly referred to as a "hole in the heart," states Kids Health. Atrial septal defect occurs as an opening between the two upper chambers of the heart, the atria. This defect may be small enough that it does not affect a patient's growth or lifestyle, and in many cases, the hole closes on its own. A larger defect can be life threatening and need surgical repair.
Pulmonary Hypertension
In cases of a large atrial septal defect, too much blood flows into the lungs, which raises pulmonary blood pressure. High pulmonary blood pressure is referred to as pulmonary hypertension. If the condition persists over a number of years, permanent lung damage can result, which is termed Eisenmenger syndrome. According to MayoClinic.com, physicians may recommend that women suffering from Eisenmenger syndrome not get pregnant, possibly due to risk of development of preeclampsia.
Right-sided Heart Failure
Due to a more profuse blood flow between the atria with atrial septal defect, the heart increases the strength of contractions in an effort to expel more blood. Over time, this more demanding workload eventually wears out the right-side of the heart and lessens the strength of the contractions, which results in heart failure.
Heart Rhythm Abnormalities
When the heart fills with too much blood and cannot effectively pump out the extra fluid, heart rhythm abnormalities may occur in the form of atrial fibrillation, reports the National Institutes of Health. The heart rate increases, and instead of a regular forceful contraction, the heart begins to quiver. Atrial fibrillation also takes a toll on the heart because it cannot maintain a high heart rate for long periods of time without damage to the heart muscle.
Shortened Life Expectancy
A heart that is overworked from birth lowers the life expectancy of the individual. The heart cannot meet the body's circulatory needs when it must constantly attempt to correct the fluid overload caused by atrial septal defect.
Stroke
Patients with atrial septal defect carry an increased risk of stroke, according to the NIH. From the increased amount of blood in the heart, a clot could form and pass through the opening in the atria to the brain.
Activity Intolerance
Atrial septal defect compromises the oxygen supply to the rest of the body and results in fatigue, which limits participation in activities. Patients may be lethargic and need frequent rest breaks in both work and play.
References
- Kids Health: Atrial Septal Defect
- MayoClinic.com: Atrial Septal Defect; Complications
- National Institutes of Health: Atrial Septal Defect
- "Critical Care Nursing"; Judith A. Schilling McCann; 2007
- "Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary"; F.A. Davis Company; 2009
