What causes congenital and acquired heart disease?
Research continues, but in most cases the cause of congenital heart disease still cannot be identified. Genetic, environmental factors and lifestyle habits can all be involved. Viral infections, such as German measles, can be the cause as well as the mother’s excessive use of alcohol or illegal drugs while pregnant. The mother’s exposure to certain anticonvulsant and dermatologic drugs during pregnancy can also be the source. Genetic conditions such as Down’s syndrome can affect multiple organs and be the cause of congenital heart disease.
