Structural heart defects encompass a group of problems that may involve the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels. These defects may be present at birth or develop as you get older.

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These are a few examples of structural heart defects:

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Aortic valve stenosis: a buildup of calcium deposits on the aortic valve

Atrial septal defect: a hole in the wall that separates the two upper chambers in your heart
Ventricular septal defect: a hole in the wall separating the two lower chambers
Patent foramen ovale: a small opening between the two upper chambers that fails to seal after birth

Even when structural defects are congenital, they may not cause symptoms until you’re an adult. Schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Advanced Heart and Vein Center for further evaluation.