Symptoms, Risk Factors, And Causes Of Congenital Heart Diseases

Shortness Of Breath

The oxygen absorbed by the lungs is carried throughout the body by a protein called hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells. When individuals have a congenital heart disease or defect, their overall volume of blood flow is decreased. Less blood flow means less hemoglobin, creating a slightly hypoxic state in some patients with a congenital heart disease. This slight hypoxia usually presents itself as shortness of breath, not only when exercising but also when at rest. Any chronic, unexplained shortness of breath should be reported to a doctor as soon as possible.