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Ventricular Septal Defect (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

Any of the following should be reported to your child's health care provider:

  • Poor weight gain or slowing of weight gain in the first months of life


  • Unusual behavior


  • Any of the other symptoms noted in the previous section

An immediate visit to the nearest hospital emergency department is warranted if you notice any of the following in your infant:

  • Shortness of breath, breathing difficulty of any type, or worsening of an existing breathing problem


  • Bluish color of the skin, lips, or under the nails


  • Unusual or unexplained sweating



Next: Exams and Tests »

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Ventricular Septal Defect, General Concepts »

A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole or a defect in the septum that divides the 2 lower chambers of the heart and that results in a communication between the ventricular cavities.

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