Congenital heart disease affects how well the heart functions. People are born with these conditions, which means symptoms can often present at a very young age. Fortunately, there are many medications doctors can use to manage the effects of congenital heart disease.
Also known as blood thinners, anticoagulants stop blood clots from forming, which can lead to serious, life-threatening health effects. These drugs are used to treat arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms. Blood thinners can increase bleeding risk, so patients must undergo regular monitoring when on these medications.
Some people are unable to take blood thinners due to the bleeding risk, but antiplatelet medications can offer the same benefits when it comes to blood clot prevention. These drugs stop platelets from binding together, which can inhibit blood flow and increase a person’s risk of stroke.
Some arrhythmias cause the heart to beat too quickly, which can lead to heart failure without proper treatment. Medications called beta blockers help regulate one’s heart rate by limiting the impact of adrenalin and other hormones produced as a response to stress.
Diuretics can expel excess fluid, which often accumulates in people with heart failure. These medications improve the function of the heart and lungs by allowing the kidneys to efficiently release excess water and salt via urination.
People with high blood pressure can benefit from angiotensin II receptor blockers, which improve blood flow. Angiotensin II receptor blockers work by relaxing the blood vessels, but they can also reduce excessive levels of water and salt in the body similar to diuretic medications.
Some forms of congenital heart disease significantly increase a person’s risk of an infection called endocarditis. Endocarditis can impact people with a specific type of heart defect, as well as those with replacement heart valves.