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I am a 56 year old male and I tire on exertion, ...


Sent to Health Experts October 17, 2005 10:41 p.m.

I am a 56 year old male and I tire on exertion, such as walking up a flight of stairs and I occasionally have heart palpitations. I have a persistent cough that seems to worsen as I lay down. I am pretty sure I have a innocent heart murmur but why does my cough worsen when I lay down?

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on October 17 2005 at 10:48pm
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $5   
Answer
October 17, 2005 10:50 p.m. (9 minutes and 16 seconds later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

Hi!

You might be developing what is called congestive heart failure. This will cause a fluid build up in your body which will cause fluid in the lungs and the cough you are describing. When you lay down, the fluid pools in your lungs rather than having the gravity to pull it down into your legs.

This is fairly common in people with a heart murmur.

The good news is that this condition is very easily treatable and controlled with a doctors guidance. Please make an appointment for a good check up soon.

Kerry



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Kerry, RN
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