Aortic valve stenosis
Congenital aortic valve stenosis is a condition where someone is born with an aortic valve that cannot open fully.
Adult congenital heart disease
Navigating adulthood with a congenital heart condition presents unique challenges. We’re here to help with expert tips, inspiration and answers to common questions.
Congenital heart disease: key facts
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What is adult congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart disease is a heart problem you’re born with. In the UK, more than 2.3 million people are living with one.
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Lifelong care and support
Improvements in care means adults with congenital heart disease enjoy longer, healthier lives. Regular check-ups can help keep you well.
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Looking after your health and wellbeing
Lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of further heart problems whilst improving your emotional wellbeing and mental health.
Congenital heart conditions A to Z
Atrial septal defect (ASD)
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the atrial septum, the wall between the two upper chambers of the heart (atria).
Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD)
Atrioventricular septal defect is a large hole or holes in the wall between the chambers of the heart. There is only one valve, instead of two.
Coarctation of the aorta
Coarctation of the aorta means part of your aorta is narrower than it should be, which stops blood flowing as easily as it should.
Ebstein's anomaly
Ebstein's anomaly is a problem with your tricuspid valve which helps to control the blood flow in right side of your heart.
Patent ductus arteriosus
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is when a blood vessel in your heart does not close by itself after you're born.
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tetralogy of Fallot (also known as Fallot's tetralogy) affects how your heart works and how blood flows through it.
Transposition of the great arteries
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is where the two main arteries in your heart are swapped around.
Truncus arteriosus (TA)
Truncus arteriosus, sometimes called common arterial trunk, is when you have one blood vessel taking blood away from your heart instead of two.
Ventricular septal defect
A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole in the wall between your heart's lower chambers.
Pulmonary valve stenosis (PVS)
Pulmonary valve stenosis is when your pulmonary valve or the area around it is narrow. This means you have problems with blood flow in your heart and your heart has to work harder to pump blood.
Your emotional wellbeing
Living with congenital heart disease
Having a lifelong heart condition brings its own emotional and practical challenges. Hear from two experts on how to cope and live a fulfilling life.
How to cope with fears about your life expectancy
When you have a heart condition, it’s natural to worry about dying. Gain clinical insights and tips on managing those fears.
Emotional support
Living with a heart condition can make you feel anxious and isolated. These feelings are normal but we have some support available if you need it.
Coping with surgery
Get in shape for surgery: 5 ways to have the best chance of recovery
Discover 5 things you can do to prepare for surgery and how to recover as quickly and well as possible.
How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety
It’s normal to feel anxious in the lead up to heart surgery. A clinical psychologist offers tips on how to manage difficult feelings.
Staying positive through multiple surgeries: Kieran's story
Kieran Cooper has had numerous procedures and surgeries for the heart condition he was born with. He shares how he copes and stays positive.
Popular topics, expert tips and research
Will my congenital heart condition affect sex and my relationships?
We talk about how your congenital heart condition may affect sex and your relationships. We cover medicines, contraception, safety and having a baby.
10 things adults with congenital heart conditions want to know
These are the 10 things people with congenital heart conditions told us they want to know to feel more in charge of their health.
Pregnancy and congenital heart disease
If you are thinking about starting a family when you have a congenital heart condition, don’t miss our guide to planning ahead, labour and recovery.
How to talk about your heart condition
Opening up about your heart condition can be difficult. Learn the benefits of sharing your story and tips to start those important conversations.
Get expert tips to stay fit and healthy
Heart Matters is your guide to better heart health. Join for the latest news, heart-healthy recipes, treatment updates, plus tips to boost your mood.
Powering future breakthroughs
The science we fund has improved the lives of people living with congenital heart disease, at all stages from birth to adulthood.
Inspiring real-life stories
“Exercise has been a lifeline for me”
Beth Greenaway was born with a hole in the heart (atrial septal defect). She says staying active has been a source of strength despite her challenges.
“How I cope with my fears about the future”
Vicki Macdonald’s parents were told she wouldn't live beyond 21. Now an adult, she reflects on how she copes with feelings about life expectancy.
“I've learned to live in the moment, not worrying about the past”
Patrick McCann shares emotional difficulties he experienced growing up with a heart condition, and how gratitude, meditation, and volunteering helped.