Atrial Septal Defect, pronounced ˈeɪ·tri·əl ˈsɛp·təl ˈdi·fɛkt, is a medical condition characterized by a hole in the wall that separates the atria of the heart. The correct spelling of this word is crucial for medical professionals to communicate effectively and ensure proper treatment for patients. The IPA phonetic transcription accurately represents the sounds of each syllable and vowel sound. This helps to avoid miscommunication and ensures accurate communication among medical professionals who may speak different languages or dialects.
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening in the septum, the dividing wall between the upper chambers of the heart known as the atria. This opening causes a communication or passage between the left and right atria, which are normally completely separate. The defect allows oxygenated blood from the left atrium to mix with deoxygenated blood from the right atrium. This leads to a shunting of blood from the left side of the heart to the right side, diminishing the efficiency of oxygen distribution throughout the body.
ASD can vary in size and location, with smaller defects often causing no symptoms and going undetected until later in life. Larger and more significant defects can result in symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, recurrent respiratory infections, and poor growth in children. If left untreated, ASD can lead to complications such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, atrial arrhythmias, and strokes.
Diagnosis of ASD is typically made through an echocardiogram, a noninvasive imaging test that uses sound waves to visualize the heart's structures and blood flow patterns. Treatment options for ASD include watchful waiting, medication to manage symptoms, and ultimately surgical or catheter-based procedures to close the opening in the septum. Closing the defect helps prevent further complications and allows the heart to function optimally. With appropriate management, individuals with ASD can live normal and healthy lives.