Summary of My Heart Murmur Condition (2024/25)

 

My Heart Murmur Condition (Mitral Regurgitation - MR)

History

• December 2024: This all came about following Clare's heart attack in late November. I had put my breathlessness down to long COVID but I was pressured by family to get it checked out by my GP.

  He listened to what I had to say and I thought he was just going to nod and let me go when he said, "Right, let's examine you." The usual tests: blood pressure, pulse rate and then the stethoscope; and then he casually asked, "Do you know what a heart murmur is?"

  I did not. And so we progressed: diagnostic tests were scheduled to investigate a suspected heart murmur, including an ECG and BNP blood test.

• Results: BNP levels were normal (indicating no heart damage). ECG was also normal, showing only a known slow heart rate. Kidney function was monitored, revealing eGFR of 85 mL/min/1.73m² (CKD Stage G2) and potassium level of 5.6 mmol/L (mildly elevated).

January 3, 2025: During a follow-up phone call, my GP confirmed all tests were within normal ranges. However, he suspects a leaky mitral valve (MR). He said there was little immediate risk, with advice to maintain normal activities while remaining mindful of potential acute events (with low probability - dial 999!).

Current Situation (January 2025)

• The heart murmur is suspected to be mitral regurgitation (MR) - it may well be age-related.
• Diagnostic findings to date:
  • Normal BNP levels, suggesting no heart failure or damage.
  • Normal ECG, apart from bradycardia (slow heart rate), already known.
  • No immediate risk flagged, but further investigation needed.

  Future Arrangements

  • Spring 2025: Echocardiogram to be scheduled for detailed imaging of heart structures and function.
  • May 2025: Cardiology referral at Musgrove Park Hospital for further evaluation and management of the suspected MR.