Medical experts explain heart murmurs and palpitations

Medical specialists are providing guidance on distinguishing between benign and serious cardiovascular symptoms, such as heart murmurs and palpitations.

Dr. Roberto Aspée, a cardiologist at Clínica Colonial, explains that a heart murmur is an anomalous sound caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart, valves, or nearby vessels. While some murmurs are innocent and require no treatment, others may indicate structural issues, such as valve narrowing or regurgitation, where blood flows backward.

Regarding palpitations, Dr. Rodolfo Jiménez Ortega from the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Hospital San Juan de Dios notes that most palpitations are benign and triggered by external factors like caffeine, cold medications, stress, or anxiety. However, he advises seeking immediate medical attention if palpitations are accompanied by pain, dizziness, or fainting.