Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) causes and prevention

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a heart defect affecting newborns. Learn its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.

12 September, 2025

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect where a vessel fails to close after birth. Discover its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What are the main causes of Patent Ductus Arteriosus?

Premature birth increases the likelihood of PDA as the ductus arteriosus often fails to close naturally in infants born before 37 weeks.
Genetic factors play a role, with certain chromosomal abnormalities and family history contributing to a higher risk of Patent Ductus Arteriosus.
Maternal infections or illnesses during pregnancy, including rubella or poorly controlled diabetes, may interfere with fetal heart development and cause PDA.

Patent ductus arteriosus symptoms early signs of heart condition

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Key symptoms of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) to watch for

Rapid breathing and respiratory distress often appear in infants with PDA, as the extra blood flow burdens the lungs and makes breathing more difficult.
Poor growth and feeding difficulties are common since infants with PDA may expend more energy while struggling with oxygen circulation and complications.
Heart murmur detected during routine checkups is a hallmark sign, often indicating turbulent blood flow through the open ductus arteriosus.

How can you prevent Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) effectively?

Proper prenatal care, including vaccinations against rubella, significantly reduces the risk of PDA and other congenital heart defects in newborns.
Managing maternal health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension during pregnancy helps lower the likelihood of abnormal fetal heart development.
Avoiding harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications during pregnancy supports healthy heart formation in the developing fetus.

PDA treatment medical options to manage the defect

>>> See more: Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Causes And Risk Factors Explained

Images visual examples of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Patent Ductus Arteriosus is a congenital heart defect where a blood vessel connecting the pulmonary artery and aorta fails to close after birth, leading to abnormal circulation.

Patent ductus arteriosus in adults rare but possible diagnosis

Patent ductus arteriosus murmur common sound in the heart

Patent ductus arteriosus causes congenital heart development issue

Patent ductus arteriosus surgery repairing the heart connection

Patent ductus arteriosus in infants frequent congenital condition

Patent ductus arteriosus diagnosis early detection saves lives

PDA closure sealing abnormal heart vessel opening

>>> See more: How Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) affects heart function

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) can be treated effectively with early diagnosis. Understanding its risks helps ensure better outcomes for affected patients.