Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Ventricular septal defectUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewA ventricular septal defect is a common heart defect that's present at birth. It involves a hole in the wall between the heart's lower chambers. SymptomsSymptoms include a bluish tint to the skin, lips, and fingernails, poor eating, fast breathing, and tiring. TreatmentsIf the hole doesn't close on its own, treatment may include medications, such as diuretics or beta blockers, or surgery to plug or patch the hole. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use