Belmont, MA
A member asked:
Can performing the valsalva maneuver while weightlifting exacerbate normal leakage across the valves of the heart if a murmur already exists?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Saptarshi Bandyopadhyayanswered
Hospital-based practice 23 years experience
Even not weightlifti: Performing a Valsalva maneuver (of which there are 4 phases) can exacerbate the regurgitation of blood in a number of valve pathologies. If a murmur already exists, the augmentation of blood flow across the valve (or diminution of it) can increase (decrease) the intensity of the murmur. It depends on the valve (mitral? aortic?) & phase of Valsalva. Do you have a concern? Discuss on HealthTap Prime
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Dr. Saptarshi Bandyopadhyay commented
Hospital-based practice 23 years experience
Provided original answer
You don't have to be weightlifting - any Valsalva maneuver can theoretically change the blood flow across a valve, depending on the valve and the type of leakage (stenosis vs. regurgitation).
May 12, 2017
Dr. George Nahhasanswered
Specializes in Cardiology
Yes it could: It is a long explanation but you should continue to breath during lifting and avoid grunting and holding breath
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
697 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 10, 2017
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