Can HMPV worsen heart problems?

Question

Hi doctor,

My son, who is 5 years old, got HMPV and cardiac shunt getting compromised. His oxygen dropped to 83 percent, and the shunt murmur changed. Lasix is not helping with swelling. Should I increase the dose? I have been suffering from a fever despite taking Tylenol. How long before permanent heart damage? When should we head to the emergency room?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is certainly a worrying situation when a child has HMPV (human metapneumovirus) and cardiac shunts. If your baby previously had normal oxygen saturation levels and they are now declining, an emergency room visit is recommended. He likely needs supplemental oxygen and continued monitoring. If your baby had low oxygen saturation previously due to the cardiac shunt, and it is now declining further, this is also a sign that requires immediate medical care and supervision. If your baby is experiencing swelling and not responding to the previous dose of Lasix (Furosemide), further diuretic medication may be needed. Again, hospital admission and monitoring would be necessary in this case.

A continuously high-grade fever also requires medical management, and the possibility of an additional opportunistic infection should be investigated.

I hope this information is helpful.

Thanks.