Employment issues for adults with congenital heart defects
Most adults with congenital heart defects can maintain regular employment but should consider their physical limitations, if any, when making career choices. As you start career planning, it is important to get a realistic and expert opinion from a cardiologist about your physical capabilities. With this information, you can seek job or vocational counselling, training and, if needed, a physical rehabilitation program.
Adults with congenital heart defects may be restricted from certain types of jobs, such as flying an airplane or joining the armed services, because of the potential risks to others in the event that they are not able to carry out their duties because of physical problems. But this does not mean that you should be otherwise restricted in your employment options. Check with your provincial government and become informed about your legal rights.
If you develop serious complications from a congential heart defect, such as heart failure, your career options may be more limited. See your doctor regularly to make sure that your health is closely monitored and that potential problems are treated early to reduce the risk of those problems becoming severe.
| Author: | Douglas Dana Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: December 20, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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