Warning signs and treatment
Most heart murmurs are not an emergency, and they need additional tests to confirm or deny the findings made in the physical exam. However, it is possible to detect emergencies by considering warning signs such as:
- Respiratory distress
- Cyanosis
- Edema
- Abnormal electrocardiogram findings
- Finger clubbing
Diagnostic tests will be recommended, including electrocardiography, angiography, echocardiography, and treatment will be initiated after detecting the abnormality. It may include antibiotics, anticoagulant agents, a surgical replacement of an incompetent valve, or no treatment at all in innocent murmurs.