Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Alternate Names : PDA

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Proper vaccination with the MMR vaccine may minimize the incidence of PDA that is rubella-related. In most cases, nothing can be done to prevent PDA.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Long-term effects depend on the severity of the patent ductus arteriosus. Sometimes no effects are noticed until adulthood. In other cases, the duct closes by itself. But if the defect places too much strain on the heart, congestive heart failure and congestion in the lungs can result.

What are the risks to others?

Patent ductus arteriosus is not contagious, and poses no risk to others.