Congenital heart defect

A congenital heart defect (CHD), also known as a congenital heart anomaly and congenital heart disease, is a defect in the structure of the heart or great vessels that happens at birth. A congenital heart defect is seen as a cardiovascular disease. Signs and symptoms depend on the specific type of defect. Symptoms can be seen from not serious to life-threatening. When present, symptoms may include rapid breathing, bluish skin (cyanosis), poor weight gain, and feeling tired. CHD does not cause chest pain.