Congenital heart defects are usually associated with newborn intensive care units and early surgeries, so many people assume the condition belongs entirely to childhood. Families often feel that once an operation is completed and a child begins growing normally, the heart problem has been “fixed.” Medicine, however, tells a more layered story. A congenital heart defect simply means the heart formed differently before birth. Some conditions are minor and need only monitoring, while others require surgery or catheter procedures early in life. Thanks to major advances in paediatric cardiology, survival rates have improved dramatically. Today, most children born with heart defects grow up, attend college, work, travel, and build independent lives. What has changed is not the condition itself, but how long people now live with it. ALSO READ: ABP Live Doc Talk: Before You Throw That Gulal, Know The Hidden Eye Risks Linked To Holi Colours A Repaired Heart Still Needs Attention Even after successful treatment, the heart may function differently from one that developed typically. Surgical repairs often redirect blood flow or support weakened structures rather than restore anatomy completely. Over years, valves can leak, heart rhythms may become irregular, or certain chambers may work harder than intended. These changes usually develop gradually. Young adults may simply notice getting tired more easily, occasional palpitations, or breathlessness that feels out of proportion to their usual activity. Because symptoms develop slowly, they are easy to dismiss as stress or lack of sleep. Regular follow-up helps identify these changes early, long before they begin affecting quality of life. The Transition Gap Many Young Adults Face One of the most common challenges occurs during late adolescence. As children move from paediatric care into adult healthcare systems, follow-up visits often become irregular. College schedules, relocations, and new independence push medical appointments lower on the priority list. Years can pass without evaluation, especially when individuals feel well. Unfortunately, congenital heart disease does not disappear with age. Small issues that could have been monitored early sometimes resurface later with greater complexity. Specialised adult congenital heart clinics now exist precisely to bridge this gap, offering care suited to changing physical and lifestyle needs. Important Life Stages That Need Planning Some life stages need a little extra planning. Pregnancy, for instance, puts added strain on the heart. Many women with congenital heart defects go through pregnancy safely, but a cardiac check-up beforehand helps anticipate risks and plan care better. Exercise is often misunderstood in congenital heart disease. Staying active is usually beneficial, but the level of intensity may need personal adjustment. Proper medical advice helps keep activity safe without unnecessary limitations. Living Fully, With Awareness A diagnosis of congenital heart disease no longer defines limits in the way it once did. Most adults lead active, productive lives, often forgetting they were ever cardiac patients. The goal of long-term care is not restriction but reassurance, understanding how the heart changes over time and responding early when needed. Congenital heart defects start before birth but don’t end in childhood. With regular follow-up and informed choices, most individuals can move through adulthood with confidence while keeping their heart health on track. Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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India are up against an opposition - Zimbabwe - that already silenced a home crowd in the group stages when they beat Sri Lanka in Colombo, and Thursday presents them another opportunity to replicate that success at the noisy Chepauk. Both teams find themselves in a must-win situation and Zimbabwe's Ryan Burl didn't venture into the "dangerous" territory of silencing India in India.

Times of India

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Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu pointed out that PM Modi's saffron pocket square perfectly matched his wife's orange jacket.

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The highly anticipated film KHxRK, reuniting Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan after four decades, has released a behind-the-scenes video to quell AI-generated model speculation. The footage confirms real actresses were used, delighting fans. Meanwhile, veteran actor Mammootty is reportedly in talks for a significant guest role, adding further star power to the project.

Times of India

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Narendra Modi Israel Visit LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is travelling to Israel on a two-day high-profile visit on Wednesday, marking his second trip to Tel Aviv after the historic 2017 visit.

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The iconic Fast and Furious saga is concluding with 'Fast Forever,' slated for March 17, 2028. This two-part finale follows 'Fast X,' which ended with numerous cliffhangers, including character sacrifices and shocking resurrections. Despite budget constraints and box office performance of recent installments, the franchise is set for its grand send-off.

Times of India

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Four Indian American researchers have been honoured as 2026 Sloan Research Fellows, a prestigious early-career recognition. Their groundbreaking work in cryptography, statistics, AI reliability and quantum computing from Carnegie Mellon University and MIT highlights the significant contributions of diaspora scientists. This award provides crucial support for their transformative research endeavours.

Times of India

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Two vehicles were swallowed by a sinkhole at Omaha's 67th and Pacific intersection. Drivers escaped unharmed, and authorities are investigating a probable underground water leak.

NDTV

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CBSE Board 2026 Class 12th Geography Exam LIVE Updates:The CBSE Class 12 Geography exam is scheduled for February 26, 2023, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, with a reading period from 10:15 am to 10:30 am before writing begins.

India

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A rare husband-wife exchange unfolded in the Meghalaya Assembly as NPP MLA Mehtab Chandee A Sangma questioned Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on stalled livestock education projects, prompting assurances from the CM that the process would be expedited

India

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Music composer Ismail Darbar revealed his son, Imaan, is raised to respect all faiths, participating in both Hindu and Muslim rituals with dual names. He also spoke about his second marriage to Ayesha, crediting her unwavering support through challenging career phases, even quoting Sanjay Leela Bhansali's praise for his wife's role in his survival.

Times of India

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According to the Hindu Vedic calendar, Amalaki Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, February 27, 2026. The festival is celebrated every year on the Ekadashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Phalguna. On this sacred day, devotees worship Lord Vishnu, revered as Jagat ke Nath (Lord of the Universe), and Goddess Lakshmi. Followers of the Vaishnava tradition, along with other devotees, observe the Ekadashi fast with great श्रद्धा and devotion. Amalaki Ekadashi 2026: Date And Tithi Timings As per the Vedic Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi of Shukla Paksha in Phalguna will begin at 12:33 AM on February 27, 2026, and conclude at 10:32 PM the same day. Therefore, Amalaki Ekadashi will be observed on February 27. Amalaki Ekadashi Vrat Parana Time The fast will be observed on Friday, February 27, while the Parana (breaking of the fast) will take place on Saturday, February 28. The auspicious time for Parana is between 7:00 AM and 9:19 AM. Auspicious Yogas On Amalaki Ekadashi According to astrologer Anish Vyas, several auspicious yogas, including Ayushman Yoga, will be formed on the occasion of Amalaki Ekadashi. Worshipping Lord Vishnu during these favorable planetary alignments is believed to invite the special blessings of Goddess Lakshmi as well. It is believed that observing the fast and offering prayers on this day grants devotees prosperity and happiness equivalent to heavenly comforts on Earth. The blessings are said to remove obstacles and bring positivity and success in life. Ayushman Yoga will remain effective until 7:44 PM on February 27. Additionally, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, Ravi Yoga, and Bhadravas Yoga will also coincide with Amalaki Ekadashi this year, enhancing the spiritual significance of the occasion. [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.] 

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