Frequently asked questions about adult congenital heart disease (ACHD)

Since adults with congenital heart disease live longer than ever before, we have learned that even the simplest defects can produce long-term effects and complications. These include both cardiac and non-cardiac problems.

Whether you were born with congenital heart disease (CHD) and had surgery as a child, or you only recently learned about your CHD, your heart needs specialized care that is different than what you might get from a general adult cardiologist or a pediatric cardiologist because your heart’s structure and function are unique.

To make an appointment with one of our board-certified ACHD experts, contact us.

In general, pregnancy in women living with congenital heart disease is safe, but for some, pregnancy may have significant risks to the mom and unborn baby. One of the biggest concerns is the increased stress on the heart. Learn more about the care provided to pregnant women with adult congenital heart disease.

Most adults who have had heart surgery as a child should see a heart doctor for life. It's especially important to see an board-certified adult congenital heart disease cardiologist, as general adult cardiologists are not trained to care for hearts that were surgically corrected in childhood.

Even if you are feeling well, regular check-ups are crucial because through diagnostic testing, we can often spot subtle changes before they become problems. 

Early warning signs to see a doctor

While many people may not experience any symptoms, see an ACHD specialist if you experience any of these warning signs:

• Heart racing
• Extra heart beats
• Trouble keeping up with usual exercise routines
• Feeling easily exhausted, for example when walking up stairs.

See a doctor for these non-cardiac situations

Some life situations require special attention for patients with ACHD. These scenarios can have a major impact on quality of life. Our experienced physicians and surgeons can help in situations including:

• Obtaining health and life insurance
• Pregnancy
• Birth control
• Exercise restrictions
• Learning disabilities

Exceptions

Adults with some congenital conditions may do not need to see a doctor if heart defects were treated before irreversible heart or lung damage developed. Those conditions include:

• Atrial septal defect (ASDs)
• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) 
• Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) 

Contact us to make an appointment with of our board-certified ACHD specialists.

Our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program is here to help with appointments, questions and comments.

Call us

To make an appointment for adult congenital heart disease care or to refer a patient, call (414) 266-6784.

Contact us

We welcome your questions about adult congenital heart care. Submit questions and comments through our contact us form. We will do our best to respond within 24 hours on weekdays.