What Is Congenital Heart Disease in Children?

Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a group of conditions in which a child is born with structural differences in the heart. These differences develop before birth and can affect how blood flows through the heart and to the rest of the body. Some forms of CHD are mild and may not cause noticeable symptoms, while others are more complex and require ongoing care. Each child’s experience is unique, and with advances in medicine and supportive care, many children with CHD grow up to live full and meaningful lives.