sydänvikojen

Sydänviat, often translated as heart defects or heart conditions, encompass a wide range of abnormalities affecting the structure or function of the heart. These can be present at birth, known as congenital heart defects, or develop later in life due to various factors. Congenital heart defects are among the most common birth defects, arising when the heart or blood vessels do not develop properly during fetal growth. Examples include holes in the heart, such as atrial septal defects (ASD) and ventricular septal defects (VSD), where abnormal openings exist between the heart's chambers. Other congenital issues involve problems with heart valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), or more complex structural abnormalities.

Acquired heart conditions, on the other hand, develop after birth. These can stem from various causes including coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the arteries supplying the heart muscle, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially heart attacks. Valvular heart disease can also be acquired, often due to infections, aging, or other medical conditions. Heart muscle diseases, known as cardiomyopathies, affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Symptoms of heart defects vary greatly depending on the type and severity, and can range from no noticeable issues to severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests like electrocardiograms (ECG), echocardiograms, and imaging scans. Treatment options are diverse, including medication, surgical repair, or minimally invasive procedures, with the goal of improving heart function and quality of life.