FALLOT'S TETRALOGY

FALLOT’S TETRALOGY

Overview and Facts

Fallot’s tetralogy is an uncommon disorder caused by a set of four heart abnormalities that are inborn (congenital).

These abnormalities impair the heart’s structure and provoke oxygen-poor blood to circulate from  the heart and through the body. Moreover, Fallot’s tetralogy causes blue-tinged skin in infants and toddlers because their blood does not contain adequate oxygen.

Furthermore, this condition is commonly diagnosed during childhood or right after. Nevertheless, in some cases, Fallot’s tetralogy may not be identified until adulthood. However, this depends on the seriousness of the symptoms and problems.

With early detection and correct treatment, patients who have the condition will fairly live a normal life. However, they will be obliged to have regular checkups, medications, and exercise limitations.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of Fallot’s tetralogy depend on the severity of the blockage of blood circulation from the right ventricle and through the lungs. Also, the following are Fallot’s tetralogy’s possible signs and symptoms:

  • Rapid breathing and shortness of breath
  • A bluish color of the skin
  • Clubbing of toes and fingers
  • Tiredness after even light exercises
  • Heart murmurs
  • Fainting
  • Poor weight gain
  • Prolonged crying

Seek immediate medical attention if you or anyone experiences symptoms of Fallot’s tetralogy.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

If you have blue-tinged skin or if the doctor detects a heart murmur—which is an unusual whooshing noise due to turbulent blood circulation— he or she may suspect Fallot’s tetralogy. The doctor will do a physical examination and run certain tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include:

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Echocardiography 
  • Chest X-ray
  • Cardiac catheterization
  • Pulse oximetry 

TREATMENT

The only effective treatment for Fallot’s tetralogy is surgery. Temporary shunt surgery or an intracardiac repair are two surgical alternatives. 

Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctors will choose the most suitable surgery and when it should be performed.

In some situations, your child may require medication to sustain the heart’s opening between two open large blood veins. Prior to intracardiac repair, this can help keep circulation going out from the heart to the lungs.

Ask your doctor about the suitable treatment for your or your child’s condition so that you can prevent the disease from getting more serious.

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