Question
About 3 years ago my doctor told me that I had a heart murmer. I went to a cardiologist and they said that it was not too bad and that I would be ok. I don't take any medication for it and it rarely bothers me. Is heart murmer a reason to be disqualified for a cdl?
Answer
It means nothing. A large percentage of the population has murmers and some physicians believe patients shouldn't even be told they have them. Heart sounds are very difficult to master and only a handful of doctors do them well. There is a lot of genetic varience and apparently some people develop hearts that have funny sounds, generally, but not always, caused by one of the tissue valves not completely closing during the cycle. Unless you are going to be a deep sea diver or an astronaut, there is no reason to restrict activity or do anything different from what you would ordinarily do or your doctor would have told you so. Accept the comment in the same vein as if he said: "You have a birthmark on your left arm."
Answer
I agree with NY2.
As long as you do not suffer any symptoms from this murmur (dizziness, loss of consciousness, etc.) it is of no signifigance. Heart sounds must be evaluated by professionals with specialized skills and then backed with an EKG or Echocardiogram (only when clinically indicated)for a true picture of the situation. However, unless you are going to dive, fly or be put to sleep for surgery, there should be no reason to pursue this diagnosis other than you begin experiencing associated symptoms.
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Answer
The doctors did do the whole 9 yards with the tests and what not, but I don't pass out . Thanks alot