Television presenter Emma Willis has publicly shared a significant personal health revelation, disclosing that she has unknowingly lived with a heart condition her entire life. The 49-year-old was diagnosed last year with an atrial septal defect (ASD), commonly referred to as a 'hole in the heart'.
Willis is now spearheading a vital awareness campaign in partnership with the British Heart Foundation (BHF), aiming to shed light on the experiences of individuals living with similar cardiovascular conditions.
What is an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
An atrial septal defect is a form of congenital heart disease, meaning it is present from birth. The condition involves an opening in the wall (the septum) that divides the heart's two upper chambers, the atria.
This defect allows blood to flow abnormally from the left atrium to the right atrium, which can create a distinctive swishing sound known as a heart murmur. This murmur is often the first clue for doctors, and it can sometimes be detected even before a baby is born.
Emma Willis discovered her condition during a routine health screening in January 2025. "I was floored as I had gone 48 years oblivious, not knowing anything was wrong," she admitted. "The mental shift was the biggest challenge, because when you hear those words, it terrifies you. My perspective on life shifted."
Recognising the Symptoms and Potential Risks
While many children with ASD show few or no symptoms, adults may begin to experience noticeable signs as the strain on the heart and lungs increases over time. Key symptoms to be aware of include:
- Breathlessness, particularly during physical activity.
- Fatigue and an inability to exercise for prolonged periods.
- Experiencing irregular or rapid heartbeats (arrhythmias).
- Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen.
- A heightened susceptibility to lung infections.
The BHF strongly urges anyone experiencing these symptoms to consult a medical professional. If left untreated, a significant ASD can lead to serious complications such as heart failure, stroke, or pulmonary hypertension due to the extra blood flow damaging the lung arteries.
Causes, Treatment, and Raising Awareness
The exact causes of ASD are not always clear, though genetic factors can play a role. Certain conditions during pregnancy may increase risk, including maternal rubella (German measles), diabetes, or the use of specific medications.
Treatment is not always immediately necessary. Small defects may close on their own during childhood, and minor openings in adults with no symptoms might simply be monitored. However, when symptoms are present or the hole is large, closure is typically recommended.
"From diagnosis to surgery was the most present I have been in my life," Willis reflected. "I'm hoping that sharing my story will help others going through something like this." There are no drug treatments to repair the hole; closure is achieved via keyhole or open-heart surgical procedures, after which most patients can return to a normal lifestyle.
To mark its 65th anniversary, the British Heart Foundation is installing 65 red benches across the UK, each dedicated to a heart condition survivor. This campaign, which Emma Willis is supporting, personalises the fight against cardiovascular disease by sharing individual stories and hobbies.
