Heart murmurs can be a source of anxiety for many. The term itself sounds ominous, often leading to misconceptions and fear.
But what exactly is a heart murmur?
In simple terms, it’s an unusual sound heard between heartbeats. It’s not a disease but a symptom that can point to various conditions. They are typically detected using a stethoscope during a routine check-up. Most are innocent and are not always indicative of disease; often, they are harmless, merely variations in normal heart sounds.
This article aims to debunk common myths about heart murmurs.
Understanding Heart Murmurs: The Basics
A heart murmur represents an additional noise during the heartbeat, often described as a whooshing or swishing sound. This noise stems from the turbulent flow of blood through the heart and can have various causes:
- Valves: If a valve doesn’t function properly, either by not opening fully or not closing tightly, it can lead to abnormal blood flow. This irregularity may be due to valve stenosis, where the valve becomes rigid, or valve regurgitation, where the valve fails to seal completely.
- Congenital Heart Disorders: Some individuals are born with heart anomalies that cause murmurs.
- Other Conditions, such as hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (where the heart muscle thickens), anemia and pregnancy may also be at the root of heart murmurs.
How Are Heart Murmurs Detected?
Doctors detect heart murmurs with a stethoscope during a physical exam as they listen for unusual heart sounds.
Further tests, such as echocardiograms or electrocardiograms, are sometimes needed to better understand the cause of the murmur.
Treatment Options: When and What?
Treatment for heart murmurs depends on their cause. Innocent murmurs typically require no intervention and are merely monitored.
For murmurs due to heart conditions, treatment targets the underlying issue. Options may include medications to manage symptoms or surgery for severe cases.
Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can support overall heart health. It is crucial to work with your cardiologist to determine the best approach.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your cardiologist if you notice new symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, leg swelling, dizziness, lightheadedness, or passing out as these could indicate a change in your condition.
Remember, checking on your heart could be the key to a long and healthy life. If you suspect you may have a heart murmur or it’s time for your regular heart health check, don’t hesitate to call contact Vital Heart & Vein. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive care and the assurance you need for a heart-healthy future.