Does Patent Ductus Arteriosus Close On Its Own & What Are Its Natural Remedies?

Patent ductus arteriosus is a normal fetal connection between the two major blood vessels, between the aorta and pulmonary artery, and closes after birth.¹

A smaller Patent ductus arteriosus generally closes on its own 15 hours after birth or as the child grows.²

Treatment for PDA is often dependent on the age of the person being treated and the common options include watchful waiting, medications, and surgery when your child’s condition is severe or causing complications.^3,4

Patent ductus arteriosus is an extra blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery and aorta. PDA is generally found before birth and a short period after birth. It may close on its own as the child grows, without treatment. After birth, the infant starts breathing using its lungs, and the ductus is no longer needed.¹

It typically closes 2 days after birth. However, in some babies, the ductus doesn’t close on its own and the condition is called patent ductus arteriosus. Your child’s doctor will monitor the condition from time to time to determine if the PDA closes on its own. During this condition, the ductus let the oxygenated red blood flow incorrectly from the aorta to the pulmonary artery.

This in turn causes heart palpitations and the heart works harder. PDA can occur in any individual even sometimes in healthy babies. However, they are more common in:

• Preterm Babies
• Higher Incidence in Female Babies When Compared to a Male Child
• Family History and Other Genetic Conditions
• Rubella Infection During Pregnancy.

In premature babies, the ductus takes a longer time to close. The abnormal opening of the ductus causes too much blood flow between the baby’s lungs and the heart. Small patent ductus arteriosus doesn’t show any signs and symptoms and the level of risk is very low.²

There is no treatment to cure the condition however conditions that are left untreated can result in serious complications. If you have patent ductus arteriosus and have undergone surgery, there is an enhanced risk of developing complications later in the adult stage. Therefore, periodical follow-up care is crucial for regular screening of complications.

Here are some of the ways to keep the infection under control:

• Regular Brushing/Flossing – Individuals affected with this condition will require regular brushing and flossing of teeth to prevent infections. Regular dental checkups with a dental professional are important to improve overall health and prevent further infections.
• Physical Exercises – Physical activity or exercise improve your brain health, helps with managing weight. It increases muscle strength, bone density, and ability to function properly. However, patients and parents of babies suffering from congenital heart disease often worry if physical exercises and vigorous activity can be suitable for them.

Although some children need to limit the amount of exercise they undergo, most patients can resume a normal lifestyle after surgery.^3,4

Patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart disease wherein the ductus arteriosus doesn’t close at the time of birth. When the fetus is in the mother’s womb, the baby’s blood doesn’t require to be transferred to the lungs to get oxygenated.

However, after birth, the infant needs oxygenated blood to be received by the lungs. For this to occur the ductus arteriosus has to close. When it is open, it may result in an incorrect flow of blood resulting in various complications.

References:

Also Read:

• How To Diagnose Patent Ductus Arteriosus & What Is The Best Medicine For It?
• What Are The First Symptoms Of Patent Ductus Arteriosus & How Do You Test For It?
• What Does The Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Connect? What Leads To It & Can It Be Cured?
• What Is The Prognosis For Patent Ductus Arteriosus & Lifestyle Changes For It?
• What Is The Best Treatment For Patent Ductus Arteriosus & Coping Methods For It?
• What Happens To Untreated Patent Ductus Arteriosus & When To Go To Doctor For PDA?