Symptoms

Babies born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome usually are seriously ill soon after birth. Signs and symptoms include:

• Grayish-blue skin color (cyanosis)
• Rapid, difficult breathing
• Poor feeding
• Cold hands and feet
• Weak pulse
• Being unusually drowsy or inactive

If the natural connections between the heart's left and right sides (foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus) are allowed to close in the first few days of life in babies with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, they can go into shock and possibly die.

Signs of shock include:

• Cool, clammy skin that can be pale or gray
• A weak and rapid pulse
• Abnormal breathing that may be either slow and shallow or very rapid
• Lackluster eyes that seem to stare

A baby in shock might be conscious or unconscious. If you suspect your baby is in shock, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

When to see a doctor

It's likely that your baby would be diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome either before birth or soon after. However, you should seek medical help if you notice that your baby has any of the signs or symptoms of the condition.

If your baby has signs or symptoms of shock, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.