Heart Murmur

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.

• Care notes
• Aftercare
• Ambulatory
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AMBULATORY CARE:

A heart murmur

is a sound heard between your heartbeats. The sound may be a swish or whoosh. Heart murmurs are common and are usually harmless. A murmur is sometimes a sign of a serious heart condition.

Signs and symptoms of a heart murmur:

You may not have any signs or symptoms other than the sound of the murmur. You may have any of the following signs or symptoms of an abnormal heart murmur:

• Poor appetite
• Shortness of breath with activity
• Heavy sweating with little to no activity
• Chest pain
• Feeling dizzy or faint
• Skin that is pale or blue on the fingertips or lips
• Cough
• Swelling or sudden weight gain

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have chest pain.
• You have trouble breathing.

Seek care immediately if:

• You feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint.
• Your child has chest pain with exercise.
• Your fingertips or lips are pale or blue.
• You have palpitations, or a fast heartbeat.
• You have sudden swelling in your limbs or weight gain.

Call your doctor if:

• Your child has a poor appetite or will not eat.
• You have a fever.
• You have shortness of breath with activity.
• You sweat heavily with little or no activity.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

for a heart murmur is usually not needed. An underlying heart problem, such as heart valve disease, may need treatment. Treatment may depend on how severe your underlying condition is. Ask your healthcare provider for more information on your condition.

Return to your usual activities as directed:

You may be able to return to sports or other usual activities. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any restrictions.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

You may be referred to a cardiologist. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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