Heart Murmur: A Patient’s Journey
Written by: Marcos Otero, Retired Physician Associate
Our Patient
Patient: Rosa Elena Morales
Location: Antigua, Guatemala 🇬🇹
Diagnosis: Heart Murmur
Background
Rosa Elena, a 32-year-old artisan from Antigua, Guatemala, creates intricate handmade textiles inspired by her Mayan heritage. She leads an active life, frequently walking through the hilly streets of her city to sell her work at local markets. However, she often feels unusually tired and short of breath during these walks, symptoms she has ignored for years, attributing them to overwork. Rosa was born prematurely and her family recalls doctors mentioning a “heart issue” during infancy, but she was never formally treated due to limited access to healthcare.
Presentation of Symptoms
While preparing for a local festival, Rosa experienced dizziness and fainted after climbing several flights of stairs. Concerned, her family insisted she see a doctor, where a physical examination revealed an abnormal heart sound—a murmur—prompting further investigation.
Key Symptoms
- Fatigue during mild exertion
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness and fainting spells
- Occasional chest discomfort
Diagnosis & Treatment
An echocardiogram revealed that Rosa has a congenital heart valve defect, which caused her heart murmur. This condition had likely worsened over the years, leading to her current symptoms.
Treatment Plan
- Medication: Rosa was started on a low dose of diuretics to reduce fluid buildup and symptoms.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Her doctor advised avoiding strenuous activities until her condition was stabilized.
- Surgical Consideration: Rosa was referred to a cardiac specialist to evaluate the need for valve repair or replacement surgery.
Complications
Living in a rural area with limited access to specialists posed a challenge for Rosa. She had to travel to the capital city for further evaluations. The cost of transportation and medical consultations placed additional financial stress on her family.
Cultural and Family Support
Rosa’s family and community rallied to support her, raising funds for her travel and treatment. Her siblings helped manage her market stalls, allowing her to rest and focus on her health. Her cultural pride inspired her to weave heart-themed designs into her textiles, using her craft to raise awareness about congenital heart defects.
Life Today
- Positive Outcome: After successful valve repair surgery, Rosa regained her energy and returned to her work with renewed passion. She now advocates for better rural healthcare access in her community.
- Negative Outcome: Without timely intervention, Rosa risks worsening symptoms, heart failure, and reduced life expectancy.
