Can an infection cause a heart murmur?
Can an infection cause a heart murmur?
In older children and adults, causes of abnormal heart murmurs include infections and conditions that damage the structures of the heart. For example: Valve calcification. This hardening or thickening of valves, as in mitral stenosis or aortic valve stenosis, can occur as you age.
How serious is an infection in the heart?
Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the heart’s inner lining or heart valves. It’s a serious condition that needs to be treated right away. Endocarditis can cause serious complications. It can also lead to death.
What is the most common cause of a heart murmur?
Causes of heart murmurs Valvular heart disease is the most common cause of a heart murmur. Valve stenosis – a narrow, tight, stiff valve, limiting forward flow of blood. Valve regurgitation – a valve that does not close completely, allowing backward flow (a “leaky” valve).
What are the signs of a heart infection?
Heart infection signs and symptoms can include:
- Fever.
- Shortness of breath.
- Weakness or fatigue.
- Swelling in your legs or abdomen.
- Changes in your heart rhythm.
- Dry or persistent cough.
- Skin rashes or unusual spots.
What does it mean when you hear a heart murmur?
Heart murmur. A heart murmur is a swishing sound heard when there is turbulent or abnormal blood flow across the heart valve. Causes of heart murmurs. Valve stenosis – a narrow, tight, stiff valve, limiting forward flow of blood. The abnormal changes to the valve cause the abnormal heart sound (murmur).
Will a heart murmur go away on its own?
If the murmur is caused by a condition, such as a fever, infection or thyroid problems, it will usually go away once the illness is treated. The treatment for an abnormal heart murmur depends on the type and severity of the heart problem that’s causing this issue.
What are the treatments for an abnormal heart murmur?
The treatment for an abnormal heart murmur depends on the type and severity of the heart problem that’s causing this issue. Generally, a combination of lifestyle changes and medications are used to treat heart valve diseases and related heart conditions. ( 6)
What increases my risk of developing a heart murmur?
There are risk factors that increase your chances of developing a heart murmur, including: Family history of a heart defect. If blood relatives have had a heart defect, that increases the likelihood you or your child may also have a heart defect and heart murmur.
