Patent ductus arteriosus

Updated: 2024-12-11

Description

A persistent opening in the heart; a type of congenital heart defect.

Overview

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart condition present at birth. That means it's a congenital heart defect. It is a persistent opening between two blood vessels leading from the heart. A small PDA may not cause concern, but a large one can lead to heart failure and other complications.

Symptoms

A small PDA may cause no symptoms. In babies, a large PDA may cause poor eating, sweating, fast breathing, being out of breath and extreme tiredness.

Treatments

Treatment may include regular health checkups, medicines, and a procedure or surgery to close the opening.