Heart Murmurs
Heart murmurs are unusual sounds heard during a heartbeat, often described as whooshing or swishing, caused by turbulent blood flow in the heart or nearby vessels. They can be innocent or indicate underlying heart problems, such as valve disorders or congenital defects. Heart murmurs are detected using a stethoscope during a physical exam and may be accompanied by other body signals, such as changes in eye appearance or color, which can point to cardiovascular issues.
Heart Murmurs
Heart murmurs are unusual sounds heard during a heartbeat, often described as whooshing or swishing, caused by turbulent blood flow in the heart or nearby vessels. They can be innocent or indicate underlying heart problems, such as valve disorders or congenital defects. Heart murmurs are detected using a stethoscope during a physical exam and may be accompanied by other body signals, such as changes in eye appearance or color, which can point to cardiovascular issues.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Understand what a heart murmur is and how it is heard with a stethoscope.
- Differentiate between innocent (benign) murmurs and abnormal murmurs that may signal heart disease.
- Learn how clinicians describe murmurs—timing in the cardiac cycle, location, duration, intensity, and quality—and what these clues mean.
- Identify common tests used to evaluate murmurs (e.g., echocardiography) and when imaging is recommended.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a heart murmur?
A sound heard with a stethoscope that indicates turbulent blood flow in or near the heart. Most murmurs are harmless (innocent); some indicate an underlying heart condition.
What causes innocent versus abnormal heart murmurs?
Innocent murmurs come from normal blood flow and are common in children or during activity. Abnormal murmurs may be caused by valve problems, congenital defects, or other heart conditions.
How is a heart murmur diagnosed?
A clinician listens with a stethoscope and may order tests such as an echocardiogram, ECG, or chest X-ray to assess heart structure and function.
When should I seek medical evaluation for a murmur?
See a clinician if the murmur is new, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or fatigue.