15 Heart Murmur Symptoms That May Indicate Serious Issues

Jeff King

11. Loss of Appetite or Nausea: Digestive Distress from Cardiac Strain

Sick business woman working at work, having severe nausea and abdominal pain, latin american. Photo Credit: Envato @voronaman111

A surprising, yet critical, symptom associated with severe heart murmurs and heart failure is a persistent loss of appetite (anorexia) or chronic nausea. This occurs because a struggling heart can cause blood to back up in the digestive organs, leading to congestion in the liver and intestines. This reduces blood flow to the digestive tract and can impair nutrient absorption, causing discomfort and a disinterest in food. This often-overlooked symptom points to significant systemic impact from severe cardiac dysfunction.

12. Poor Growth or Failure to Thrive (in Children): Metabolic Strain

Young girl Checking Her Height With a Yellow Measuring Tape Indoors. Photo Credit: Envato @MikeShots

In infants and young children, a serious heart murmur can manifest as poor growth or "failure to thrive." This occurs because the child's heart must work excessively hard to circulate blood due to a congenital defect, leading to increased metabolic demands. This extra energy expenditure diverts resources away from growth. Despite adequate caloric intake, the child may not gain weight or height appropriately. This insidious symptom is a critical red flag, signaling a significant underlying cardiac issue that requires urgent pediatric cardiology intervention.

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11. Loss of Appetite or Nausea: Digestive Distress from Cardiac Strain

12. Poor Growth or Failure to Thrive (in Children): Metabolic Strain

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