Whether a cardiologist closed your PDA when you were a child or adult, or it remains open, regular cardiology visits help identify potential problems early. Depending on your specific case, ongoing management may involve:
- Regular monitoring to identify potential problems in their early stages: If a complication arises, your team creates a treatment plan to maintain your good health.
- Lifestyle changes: When PDA causes pulmonary hypertension, you may need to reduce physical activity to prevent additional complications.
- Recovery from surgery: Following PDA closure as an adult, you may need to limit physical activity as you heal. Your cardiologist may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent post-surgical infection. By following your surgeon’s instructions, you can help your heart heal as quickly and fully as possible.
Depending upon your condition and the severity of treatment and symptoms, pregnancy needs to be monitored closely. Sometimes, it is not recommended at all. If you are thinking about having a baby, please talk to your doctor. At UK HealthCare, we will work with you to ensure you and your baby remain healthy. Our experts work closely with a team of OB-GYN specialists dedicated to managing high-risk pregnancy.
