The short answer
A murmur is a sound the doctor hears through the stethoscope, and most murmurs in children are innocent: the noise of blood flowing through a normal heart. Some are caused by a hole in the heart or a valve problem. A paediatric cardiologist tells them apart by examining your child and, where needed, doing an echocardiogram, a painless ultrasound of the heart. Breathlessness, sweating or tiring with feeds, poor weight gain, blue lips or fainting make a heart problem more likely and should be seen soon.
See a paediatric cardiologist, from ₦120,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Signs that need a cardiologist soon
- A baby who sweats, tires or breathes fast while feeding
- Poor weight gain
- Blue or grey lips, tongue or fingertips
- Fainting or chest pain with exercise
- Frequent chest infections
What the cardiologist does
The specialist listens to the heart, checks the pulses and oxygen level, and may do an ECG. An echocardiogram shows the heart's chambers, valves and blood flow. Many children are told on the same day that the murmur is innocent and nothing more is needed.
If there is a hole in the heart
Some small holes close on their own and only need checking. Others need medicine, a procedure through a blood vessel, or surgery in a specialist cardiac centre. The cardiologist explains which, and plans the referral with you.
What it costs on Mezo
One fixed price, paid online.
Common questions
How much is a paediatric cardiologist in Lagos?
A first consultation at Haven Paediatrics, Ikeja is from ₦120,000. An echocardiogram is priced on the same page, confirmed before you pay.
Does an echo hurt or use radiation?
No. It is an ultrasound with gel on the chest, with no radiation.
Can my child play sport with an innocent murmur?
Yes. An innocent murmur needs no restriction.
The procedures
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Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Congenital heart disease. NHS. Patient information.
- Echocardiogram. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.