What is a heart murmur?
A murmur is an extra sound heard during the heartbeat, sometimes caused by turbulent blood flow across a valve. Not all murmurs indicate serious disease, but evaluation is important.
Core Cardiology · Columbia, MO
Valvular Heart Disease Treatment in Columbia, MO
Heart valve problems can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, chest discomfort, or no symptoms at all until the valve disease progresses. Early evaluation matters.
Overview
Valvular heart disease includes conditions where heart valves do not open or close properly — such as aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation, or other valve disorders. PulsePoint cardiologists in Columbia, MO use careful history, physical examination, and echocardiography to determine severity, monitor progression, and coordinate medical or procedural treatment when appropriate.
PulsePoint Clinic serves patients in Columbia, Boone County, Jefferson City, Fulton, Moberly, and communities across Central Missouri.
Common symptoms
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Chest discomfort or pressure
- Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
- Dizziness or fainting (especially with aortic stenosis)
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Sometimes discovered incidentally on echocardiogram
When to see a cardiologist
- Murmur noted on exam or prior echocardiogram
- Known valve disease needing surveillance
- Worsening shortness of breath or exercise intolerance
- Syncope or presyncope with valve disease
- Planning for surgery or procedure and need for cardiology input
How PulsePoint treats valvular heart disease
Comprehensive history and cardiovascular examination
Echocardiography to assess valve structure and function
Medical management and activity guidance when appropriate
Serial monitoring for moderate valve disease
Referral coordination for valve intervention when indicated
Frequently asked questions
Do all valve problems need surgery?
No. Many patients with mild or moderate valve disease are monitored over time with echocardiography and medical therapy. Surgery or transcatheter valve procedures are considered when disease is severe and symptomatic.
Where can I get an echocardiogram for valve disease in Columbia?
PulsePoint offers physician-interpreted echocardiography at our Columbia clinic on Nifong Blvd.
Related heart conditions
Hypertension
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, yet it quietly damages the heart, brain, kidneys, and arteries. Physician-led hypertension care helps you understand your numbers and build a plan that works.
Heart Failure
Heart failure means the heart cannot pump effectively — not that it has stopped. With the right plan, many patients live actively and reduce hospitalizations.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder in adults. Clear diagnosis and a thoughtful plan protect both your heart and your brain.
This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or another emergency, call 911.
Your Heart Deserves Exceptional Care.
Let's build your personalized plan for a healthier tomorrow.