If you have a heart murmur, you should go to the doctor right away. They can be caused by a leaky heart valve, a heart muscle that is stiff, or a congenital heart defect. However, most heart murmurs do not lead to any other problems, so you should not worry about it. However, if you notice that the heart murmur is persistent or getting worse, you should see a doctor right away.
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Diastolic, systolic, and continuous murmurs
Systolic murmurs are a common complaint, affecting up to one third of adults. While the noise is often harmless, it can be indicative of a serious heart condition. The first step is determining whether the murmur is caused by a structural or functional problem with the heart. Diastolic murmurs may be caused by diastolic problems such as hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy or mitral valve prolapse.
Physiological and pharmacological maneuvers can help distinguish between the three types of murmurs. For example, inspiration increases venous return to the right side of the heart. On the other hand, inspiration decreases venous return to the left side of the heart because more blood is pooled in the pulmonary venous system. Diastolic, systolic, and continuous heart murmurs in adults
Congenital heart defects
Depending on the severity of symptoms, age, and size of the heart defect, congenital heart defects in adults can be treated in a variety of ways. In some cases, surgery can repair the hole, or at least reduce the symptoms. In other cases, treatment may require a course of medications. If surgery is not an option, ongoing follow-up care is recommended. This includes routine echocardiograms, prescription medications, recommended vaccines, and physical activity. It’s important to discuss options with your doctor, including possible pregnancy.
Symptoms of congenital heart defects in adults can be difficult to identify without a specialist’s help. They include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue. While these symptoms aren’t specific to a heart defect, they are common and can be an indication that something is wrong. When a person feels these symptoms, they need to visit a physician right away. Congenital heart defects can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Mitral valve prolapse
If you have mild mitral valve prolapse, it may not be a big deal. However, you should be aware that you may need to take anticoagulants and beta-blockers to keep your blood clot-free. If you have a history of stroke or atrial fibrillation, you may need these medications as well. Depending on your condition, your doctor may also recommend surgery. However, if you don’t feel ready to undergo surgery, a repair of the valve may be a better option.
People with mitral valve prolapse often have a family history of the condition. It’s estimated that about two percent of adults in the United States have this condition. Mitral valve prolapse can cause atrial fibrillation, which is a condition in which blood pooling or clotting occurs in the atria. This can lead to serious complications. In severe cases, mitral valve prolapse can lead to a stroke or heart attack.
Balloon valvuloplasty
There are a number of symptoms that indicate you should see a cardiologist when you hear a heart murmur. If you experience shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, or a heart murmur, see a doctor right away. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or surgery to correct any heart valve problems. In rare cases, you may also be at risk for a hole in your heart.
A physician will first listen to your heart using a stethoscope. This test enables them to see your heart structure in great detail and detect most heart defects. The physician may also order a chest X-ray or use an electrocardiogram to monitor heart rhythm. In some cases, a heart murmur is caused by innocent processes, such as a fast heartbeat, fever, rapid growth, pregnancy, or insufficient red blood cells.
