Potential Causes of Congenital Heart Disease

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In the vast majority of patients, the cause of congenital heart disease is unknown. Some mothers blame themselves for their child’s illness. However, most researchers stress that congenital heart diseases are usually the result of an unknown combination of factors, rather than something the birth mother did. However, there are some risk factors that have been associated with a higher rate of congenital heart disease. These risk factors include:
  • Chromosomal or genetic abnormalities (especially Down syndrome) in the child
  • Certain medications taken during pregnancy
  • Alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy
  • Maternal viral infection, such as rubella (German measles) in the first trimester



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