Congenital heart defects develop in fetuses early in pregnancy, causing one abnormality or a combination of abnormalities in the structure of the heart. Some of the more common defects are:
About 8 out of every 1,000 newborns have congenital heart defects, which can range from mild to severe. Some may cause serious symptoms at birth, requiring intensive hospital care. Other defects may go undiagnosed until the teen or even adult years.
Most kids and teens with simple heart defects don't require any special care at school. Those with more complicated heart defects, however, may show signs that require attention, such as:
Students with congenital heart defects may:
Check with your student's parents or guardians to learn about the nature of the heart condition and any effects on learning and school activities.
If a student with a congenital heart defect misses class time for doctor's visits or hospitalizations, allow extra time for assignments and provide make-up work if appropriate. Most kids and teens with congenital heart defects can fully participate in most physical and extracurricular activities and should be encouraged to do so.
Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date Reviewed: 14-09-2013
