A heart murmur is a swishing sound heard when there is turbulent or abnormal blood flow across the heart valve. Although most heart murmurs are harmless, it is important to have regular physical exams to detect any abnormal heart sounds. If a murmur is heard, further evaluation is required to determine why the murmur is present, which valve is involved and the severity of the problem.
Symptoms, which may indicate a heart murmur needs medical attention, include:
• Shortness of breath
• Leg swelling
• Chest pain
• Passing out
• Reduced exercise capacity
• Shortness of breath
• Leg swelling
• Chest pain
• Passing out
• Reduced exercise capacity
The heart murmur screening is recommended for people over the age of 50. To schedule an appointment, call 270-575-3113.