Characteristics/Symptoms

  • Be shorter or lighter than classmates
  • Tire easily and be short of breath after exercise
  • Have increased susceptibility to chest infections and/or respiratory infections (i.e. pneumonia)
  • Have activity restrictions
  • Need to carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and/or stay indoors on hot days
  • Need extra time to travel between classes
  • Need access to a bathroom if taking a diuretic medication
  • Have bluish skin color due to low oxygen levels
  • Need to use supplemental oxygen
  • Have learning problems or developmental delays

The following genetic conditions may have congenital heart defects as a characteristic finding. Click on the links below for more information.  

22q deletion syndrome

Cornelia de Lange 

Down syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome

Kabuki syndrome

Marfan syndrome

Noonan syndrome

Tuberous sclerosis

Turner syndrome

VLCAD

Williams syndrome