Overview
Babies with HLHS cannot pump enough blood to the body. Without treatment, the condition is life-threatening, but a series of surgeries can help many babies survive.
Signs
- Bluish or grey skin
- Fast breathing and difficulty feeding
- Weak pulse and cold hands and feet
- Becoming very unwell in the first days of life
Causes and risk factors
It develops before birth. The cause is usually unknown.
Diagnosis
It is often detected on a pregnancy ultrasound. After birth, an echocardiogram confirms it.
Treatment
Babies need intensive care and medicine to keep a blood vessel open, followed by a series of operations over the first years of life. Some need a heart transplant.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care if a newborn becomes blue, breathes fast, feeds poorly or becomes cold and floppy.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
