Can a hole in the heart be dangerous?

Q: I am a 31 years old female. I have a hole in my heart of the size 7 mm. Is it harmful? Do I have to undergo a surgery to rectify this?

A:You need to see a cardiologist at the earliest, who will make a detailed assessment and decide the need and the timing of surgery. Some holes in the heart can now be closed without open surgery, using special devices.