WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s pediatric cardiologist shares reassurance, advances in care for children with congenital heart defects

MORGANTOWN — Congenital heart defects (CHD) are the most common birth defect in the United States, affecting about one in every 100 babies. While hearing that diagnosis can be frightening for families, experts at WVU Medicine say there is more hope than ever before.

Mehar Hoda, M.D., a pediatric cardiologist at the WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital Heart Center, said understanding congenital heart defects and what causes them can help ease fear.

“Congenital heart defects just happen,” Hoda said. “There is nothing mothers did or didn’t do that caused the heart defect. It’s so important to get rid of that guilt.”

Some heart defects are small holes in the heart that may close on their own as a baby grows. Others may require medication or surgery. In many cases, children recover well and go on to live active, healthy lives.

Thanks to advances in prenatal testing, some heart defects can now be detected before a baby is born. After birth, signs such as a heart murmur, trouble feeding, bluish discoloration around the lips or difficulty keeping up with physical activity may lead to further evaluation.

Over the past several decades, treatment options have dramatically expanded. Conditions that once had very limited options can now often be managed or repaired with surgery. Many pediatric heart conditions only require one operation and routine follow-up as the child grows.

One of the most common concerns parents raise is whether their child will be able to live a normal life. In many cases, Hoda said, the answer is yes.

“If it’s a simple defect that’s been repaired, you should be able to live a long, healthy life,” she said. “You can play sports, you can have kids, and you shouldn’t really feel any different.”

WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s provides heart care for children across West Virginia. While complex procedures are performed in Morgantown, follow-up care is offered closer to home when possible.

Hoda encourages parents to stay involved and ask questions throughout their child’s care.

“I want every parent to feel empowered to ask every question that comes into their head,” she said. “If it puts your heart at ease, that is what we’re here for.”

To hear more about congenital heart defects, including symptoms, treatment options and long-term expectations, listen to the full episode of the Live Healthy West Virginia podcast, available on WVU Medicine’s YouTube channel and Spotify.