It is worth knowing that some congenital heart defects can be benign and resolve within the first year of life. Such defects include a septal defect between the heart's chambers and an open Botal's ductus arteriosus. It also happens that detected heart defects are actually remnants of the foetal period. Parents should observe their child after birth - for the presence of a heart defect. Visible symptoms include bruising around the mouth and nails, shortness of breath, chest murmurs and a baby who is too underweight.

When such symptoms are observed, a paediatrician should be consulted immediately with the child. The suspicion of a congenital heart defect should be carefully diagnosed by the doctor, as it can either be ruled out or, if confirmed, allows appropriate treatment to be undertaken.

Parents of children who have a congenital heart defect can rely on the help of foundations such as the Children's Heart Foundation, but also on various support groups. Their aim is to share experiences, help solve problems or make it easier to cope with the stress of everyday life, which is full of caring for a sick child.

It is important to know that a child with a heart defect can live the same life as other children. Of course, this is conditioned by the type of defect and the child's condition, but in the vast majority of cases, appropriate treatment allows the child to be physically active. Movement should definitely be encouraged in order for the body to develop properly. As Katarzyna Parafianowicz of the Children's Heart Foundation points out, the children we help recover from rehabilitation and are able to play sport. We even recommend not restricting the child's development - if there are no serious contraindications, let them play with other children, learn and lead a normal life.

Inthis way, he or she will experience a happy childhood, but at the same time will be closely watched and cared for by his or her parents.