What Is a Heart Murmur?
A heart murmur is an unusual sound heard during a heartbeat. Usually, doctors hear this sound with a stethoscope. Sometimes, the heart makes a whooshing or swishing noise. This happens when blood flows through the heart or nearby blood vessels. Heart murmurs can be harmless or may signal a heart problem. For example, some people have an innocent heart murmur, while others may have an abnormal heart murmur. Understanding the types of heart murmurs helps you know when to seek help. Cardiology experts often check for heart murmur symptoms during routine exams.
Innocent (Benign) Heart Murmurs: Causes and Features
Many people, especially children, have innocent heart murmurs. These murmurs are not caused by heart disease. Instead, they happen when blood flows quickly through a healthy heart. For example, children may have them during growth spurts. Adults can also develop innocent murmurs during pregnancy, fever, or exercise. In most cases, these murmurs do not cause symptoms or harm.
However, it is important to have a doctor check any new heart murmur to be sure it is harmless.
Abnormal (Pathological) Heart Murmurs: Causes and Features
On the other hand, abnormal heart murmurs may signal a heart problem. These murmurs can be caused by issues with the heart valves or heart walls. For example, a valve may not open or close properly. Sometimes, a hole in the heart can also cause an abnormal murmur. In addition, certain infections or heart conditions can lead to these murmurs.
Because abnormal murmurs may point to serious problems, early diagnosis is important.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Most innocent heart murmurs do not cause symptoms. However, abnormal heart murmurs may come with warning signs. For example, you should watch for:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Diagnosis: How Doctors Identify Heart Murmurs
Doctors use a stethoscope to listen for heart murmurs during a check-up. If they hear an unusual sound, they may ask about your symptoms and medical history. In addition, they may order tests to learn more. Common tests include:
These tests help doctors find the cause and type of heart murmur. Early heart murmur diagnosis can lead to better outcomes.
Treatment Options and When to Seek Help
Most innocent heart murmurs do not need treatment. However, doctors may monitor them during regular visits. For abnormal heart murmurs, treatment depends on the cause. For example, some people may need medicine to help the heart work better. Others may need surgery to fix a heart valve or repair a hole. In addition, treating infections quickly can prevent heart damage.
If you or a loved one has symptoms, do not wait. Seek help from a cardiologist for expert care.
Prevention and Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Tips
While you cannot always prevent a heart murmur, you can protect your heart health. For example, healthy habits lower your risk of heart disease. Try these tips:
In addition, teaching children about healthy habits can help prevent heart problems later in life.
Call to Action: If you or a loved one notice symptoms of a heart murmur, consult a cardiologist for personalized advice. Early care can make a big difference.
