Are kids with VSD more prone to infections?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have a 6-week-old child with a VSD. He has had nasal congestion for over a week and developed a wet cough three to four days ago. Since then, it has alternated between being wet and dry. His nasal mucus has continued to be present. He grunts or yells sometimes when he coughs and coughs three or four times in a row. Due to this his face turns red. He is presently taking Lasix. He has been to urgent care which diagnosed him with a URI. I would like to have a second opinion regarding the same.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concerns.

Children who have ventricular septal defect (VSD) are more prone to infections. If the size of the VSD is large, then a small infection, like a cough for a few days, can also result in lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI). Since your child grunts sometimes and his face turns red due to coughing, we have to rule out LRTI (lower respiratory tract infections).

I suggest you get a chest X-ray so that we can rule out a lower respiratory tract infection. If there is an infection identified on an X-ray, then the child should be put on antibiotics. Most VSDs close as the child grows, but sometimes they persist. Taking regular echocardiograms will tell the status of VSD.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you want some help.

Thank you