Congenital Heart Block

Overview

Congenital heart block is a rare condition that is present at birth. It happens when the electrical signals that control the heartbeat are blocked, causing the heart to beat too slowly or irregularly. This can range from mild to severe and may need ongoing management.

Symptoms

Symptoms of congenital heart block can vary. Some children might not have any symptoms, while others may experience:

  • Slow heart rate
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or feeding
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty feeding or poor growth in infants
  • Bluish skin color due to low oxygen levels

Causes

Congenital heart block can be caused by several factors:

  • Maternal Autoimmune Diseases: If the mother has conditions like lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome, it can affect the baby’s heart.
  • Genetic Factors: Sometimes, congenital heart block can run in families or be linked to genetic changes.
  • Heart Defects: It may occur alongside other heart problems, like holes in the heart.
  • Unknown Causes: Sometimes, the cause is not clear.

Diagnosis

To diagnose congenital heart block, doctors use:

  • Physical Exam: Checking the heart rate and looking for signs of heart issues.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Recording the heart’s electrical activity to find any irregularities.
  • Echocardiogram: Using sound waves to create images of the heart and see how it’s working.
  • Holter Monitor: A device that records the heart’s electrical activity over a day or two.
  • Fetal Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the baby’s heart before birth.

Treatment Options

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we provide expert care for congenital heart block. Treatments may include:

  • Monitoring: Regular check-ups with ECGs or Holter monitors to keep track of the heart’s activity.
  • Medications: To manage symptoms and help the heart work better.
  • Pacemaker Implantation: A small device placed under the skin that helps regulate the heart rate.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding things that may trigger or worsen symptoms.

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Congenital Heart Block. Here’s why families trust us:

“When our daughter was diagnosed with congenital heart block before birth, the team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was amazing. They closely monitored her and placed a pacemaker after birth. Now, she is thriving, and we are so grateful for their care and expertise.”

Lauramother of a child with congenital heart block

Congenital Heart Block

With proper treatment, many children with congenital heart block can live healthy lives. However, untreated, it can lead to complications like arrhythmias or heart failure.

It is diagnosed through physical exams, ECGs, echocardiograms, and sometimes fetal echocardiograms.

Treatment includes monitoring, medications, and often a pacemaker.

Contact Us

If your child has been diagnosed with congenital heart block or you have concerns about their heart health, please contact us. Our expert team is ready to provide the best care for your child.

Contact us today to learn more about our Congenital Heart Block treatment options.

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