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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding ASD and ECG
Introduction
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect where there is an abnormal opening in the atrial septum (the wall that separates the left and right atria). This opening allows oxygenated and deoxygenated blood to mix, which can lead to complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or pulmonary hypertension if left untreated.
Types of ASD:
- Ostium Secundum ASD – Most common type, located in the middle of the atrial septum.
- Ostium Primum ASD – A more severe form, often associated with other congenital defects.
- Sinus Venosus ASD – Located near the veins that bring blood to the heart.
- Coronary Sinus ASD – Rare, involves the coronary sinus.
How ECG Helps in Diagnosing ASD
An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a non-invasive test measuring the electrical activity of the heart. In ASD, ECG findings may include: - Right bundle branch block (RBBB) – Due to the enlargement of the right ventricle. - Right axis deviation – More common in larger defects. - Atrial arrhythmias – Such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter in older patients. - Prolonged PR interval – Sometimes seen due to abnormal conduction within the atria.
How is ASD Treated?
- Small ASDs may close on their own over time and may not require treatment.
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Moderate to large ASDs
often require closure using:
- Catheter-based procedures (for secundum ASD).
- Surgical repair (for larger or more complex ASDs).
Why Early Detection Matters
If left untreated, ASD can lead to: - Stroke due to paradoxical embolism. - Pulmonary hypertension from increased blood flow to the lungs. - Right heart failure over time. Thus, early detection through ECG and echocardiography is crucial for timely treatment.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Congenital Heart Disease
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000603
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30121240/
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.09.010
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586767/
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Management of Grown-Up Congenital Heart Disease
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Grown-Up-Congenital-Heart-Disease-Management-of
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/6/563/5898606
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20801927/
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.09.010
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32860028/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.