Which symptoms may suggest a child has a congenital heart defect?

The symptoms of poor weight gain, excessive sweating, and cyanosis can indicate a congenital heart defect in a child. Poor weight gain often occurs because the heart is unable to effectively pump blood, which can lead to insufficient oxygen delivery and nutrient absorption necessary for growth. Excessive sweating can be a sign of increased work of breathing or heart condition, as the body tries to compensate for inefficiencies in oxygen circulation. Cyanosis, the bluish discoloration of the skin, indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood, which is a common result of certain congenital heart defects where oxygenated and deoxygenated blood may mix or where there are issues with blood flow to the lungs. These symptoms together strongly suggest a cardiovascular issue requiring further evaluation.