Atrial septal defects (ASD) is a congenital birth defect in which the wall that separates the upper heart chambers is unable to close completely. As a result, oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium flows through the opening and mixes with oxygen-poor blood that then continues to the lungs. The excess blood flow puts more stress on both the heart and the lungs which can cause permanent damage. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, tests and diagnosis for atrial septal defects.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with atrial septal defects after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Signs & Symptoms of Atrial Septal Defects
While atrial septal defects is a congenital abnormality, signs and symptoms may not occur till much later in life. Indicators of the condition can remain dormant in an individual till age 30 or later. Regardless of when signs become apparent, atrial septal defects symptoms may include heart murmur, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, heart palpitations, persistent lung infections, stroke and bluish discoloration of the skin.
Causes of Atrial Septal Defects
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of atrial septal defects in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the heart defects risk caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of atrial septal defects in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Atrial Septal Defects Risk Factors
When the following conditions occur during pregnancy, the inherent risk for a child to develop an atrial septal defect may increase:
- Rubella infection: Also known as German measles, this infection can increase the risk of fatal heart defects in the children of pregnant mothers.
- Antidepressant drugs: Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of atrial septal defects in children born to mothers who took them while pregnant.
Atrial Septal Defects Tests & Diagnosis
The following is a list of tests that can help diagnose atrial septal defects:
- Echocardiogram
- Chest X-ray
- Electrocardiogram
- Cardiac catheterization
- magnetic resonance imaging
- Pulse oximetry
Please visit Mayoclinic.com for more information on these tests.
Do I have an Atrial Septal Defects Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in atrial septal defects lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with atrial septal defects after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.