Congenital Heart Disease Care in New Jersey at Hackensack Meridian Health
Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to problems with the heart’s structure that are present from birth. While heart defects may be diagnosed in the womb or immediately after birth, some may not show up until later in life.
Some defects are simple and may not cause symptoms, while others are more complex and may require ongoing care or surgery. At Hackensack Meridian Health, our experts provide innovative treatments and lifelong management to help you live a full and healthy life.
How are Structural and Congenital Heart Conditions Diagnosed?
Our cardiologists use one or more non-invasive cardiac diagnostic tests such as electrocardiography (Echo or EKG) to diagnose heart defects.
You may undergo a state-of-the-art minimally invasive diagnostic test including cardiac catheterization or electrophysiology. Often, we can diagnose and treat congenital heart conditions at the same time, without requiring invasive surgery.
Symptoms of Structural and Congenital Heart Disease
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Blue coloring of the skin, lips or fingernails
- Feeling out of breath and exceptionally tired during or after physical exertion
- Fluid buildup in the lungs and shortness of breath
- Swelling in the neck, abdomen, lower legs and feet
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms can include:
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Blue coloring of the skin, lips, or fingernails
- Feeling out of breath and exceptionally tired during or after physical exertion
- Fluid buildup in the lungs and shortness of breath
- Swelling in the neck, abdomen, lower legs, and feet
We treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Aortic valve stenosis: A narrow aortic valve that doesn’t open and close properly.
- Mitral valve prolapse: Valve flaps bulge backward, causing blood to flow backward.
- Atrial septal defect: A hole in the wall between the heart's upper chambers.
- Ventricular septal defect: A hole in the wall between the heart's lower chambers.
- Patent foramen ovale: An opening between the upper chambers that failed to close after birth.
- Coarctation of the aorta: A narrowing of the aorta that affects blood flow.
- Mitral valve stenosis: A narrow mitral valve opening that restricts blood flow.
