Patient's question:
My daughter is 6 years old. Recently, when I took her for a physical examination, the doctor said that her ductus arteriosus didn't close completely. There is a gap of 8 millimeters, and I just want to ask what kind of condition this is? Will it affect her health?Doctor's answer:
In cases of patent ductus arteriosus, patients primarily exhibit symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and fatigue after physical activity. They are also prone to recurrent respiratory infections, which can lead to delayed growth and development. During cardiac auscultation, a systolic murmur can be heard. In advanced stages, when pulmonary artery hypertension occurs, the murmur may change in character, and a diastolic murmur may also reappear.