Ask a doctor on the topic of Pediatrics

Heart murmur

July 31, 2012 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,
I was at the pediatrician with my son today, he is 6 1/2 years old and will soon be starting school. About a year ago, the pediatrician heard a faint sound in his heart, but because my son had no problems, we were just told to monitor it. Now, about 1 year later ... the pediatrician listened to him while sitting, then he had to lie down again and then the doctor asked me if he has any heart problems. I said, "No"
The pediatrician gave us a referral to the pediatric cardiologist. The referral states 2-3 /6 Syst. for clarification of the defect. And now I am very afraid that it means something serious. My son is 1.20 cm tall and weighs 22kg and is otherwise very healthy and active and rarely gets sick.
Can you explain this to me?

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good morning,

Since your son is doing well, there is no reason to worry at all. The doctor heard a very faint noise, which is sometimes also heard in healthy children when the blood in the heart swirls. However, it could also mean that there is still a small hole in the heart septum, or that a heart valve does not close completely. Both would be only a tiny disturbance in your son, which may change as he grows. A larger defect would sound louder and cause problems for your son when playing. Therefore, you can calmly await the examination!

Best regards,
Dr. Höllering, specialist in internal and general medicine