Congenital cardiac defects



It is an abnormality in the heart that develops before birth.

Down syndrome

It is a genetic disorder, which affects the 21st pair of the chromosome, causing developmental and intellectual delays.
Symptoms may include:
·         Congenital heart disease
·         Delayed development
·         Difficulty in thinking and understanding.

Ventricular septal defect

It is a heart defect due to an abnormal connection between the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles).
Symptoms may include:
·         Heart murmur
·         Shortness of breath
·         Fatigue
·         Rare

Turner syndrome

A chromosomal disorder in which a female is born with only one X chromosome
Symptoms may include:
·         Congenital heart disease
·         Recurrent ear infections
·         Widely spaced nipples
·         Rare

DiGeorge syndrome

A disorder caused by a defect in chromosome 22.
Symptoms may include:
·         Congenital heart disease
·         Underdeveloped jaw
·         Speech impairment
·         Rare

Foetal alcohol syndrome

Physical and mental damage in a child due to alcohol exposure while in the womb.
Symptoms may include:
·         Congenital heart disease
·         Misshapen face
·         Failure to thrive

Occupational Therapy for Pediatric Heart Patients

What does an Occupational Therapist do?
The Occupational Therapist (OT) works with children of all ages that have complex heart issues. The OT can provide treatment to help in the following areas:
·         Feeding skills
·         Developmental and motor performance
·         Fine motor skills
·         Activities of daily living
·         Self-help skills
·         Play skills
·         Eye-hand coordination
·         Thinking skills
·         Visual skills
·         Sensory skills
·         Wheelchair and adaptive equipment needs
·         Postural control and positioning
·         Level of arousal and responsiveness
·         Range of motion
·         Strength
·         Endurance
The OT will also address the child’s positioning and environment to help them be more successful in the above areas. The OT will teach the caregivers tips and strategies to help them feel comfortable working with their child at home.

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