Question

Simple description of atrial septal defect.

Answer 1

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition characterized by an abnormal opening in the septum, the wall that divides the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria). This defect allows blood to flow from the left atrium (which has higher pressure) to the right atrium, leading to increased blood flow to the lungs and potential complications over time. Symptoms can vary, and many individuals may not experience any noticeable issues, especially if the defect is small. Larger defects may lead to symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, or heart palpitations. Treatment options include monitoring, medication, or surgical repair, depending on the size of the defect and the symptoms present.