Many children born with atrial septal defects do not have any symptoms. Signs or symptoms may appear in adulthood.
Signs and symptoms of an atrial septal defect can include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during training
- Fatigue
- Swelling of the legs, feet, or abdomen
- Rapid heartbeat or feeling of irregular heartbeats
- Ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack
- Migraines with or without aura
- Heart murmur — a whistling sound that can be heard with a stethoscope
When to see a doctor
Consult your doctor if you or your child has:
- Dyspnea
- Rapid fatigue, especially after physical activity
- Swelling of the legs, feet, or abdomen
- Rapid heartbeat or feeling of irregular heartbeats
- Was there an ischemic stroke or a transient ischemic attack
- Migraines with or without aura
