Introduction
A heart murmur is an unusual sound heard during a heartbeat, often described as a whooshing or swishing noise. Heart murmurs are detected by a doctor using a stethoscope and can be harmless (innocent) or a sign of an underlying heart problem. Understanding the causes and significance of heart murmurs is important for ensuring proper evaluation and care.
Causes
Heart murmurs are caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart or its valves. Innocent (functional) murmurs are common in children and healthy adults and are not associated with heart disease. Pathological murmurs may result from structural heart problems, such as valve abnormalities (narrowing or leaking), congenital heart defects, infections (endocarditis), or other heart conditions. Fever, anemia, or rapid growth in children can also cause temporary murmurs.
Symptoms
Most innocent heart murmurs do not cause any symptoms and are discovered during routine check-ups. If a murmur is due to an underlying heart problem, symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, swelling in the legs or abdomen, or poor growth in children. The presence of symptoms increases the likelihood that the murmur is significant and requires further evaluation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and listening to the heart with a stethoscope. If a murmur is detected, your doctor may order additional tests such as an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, or blood tests to determine the cause and assess heart function. If you or your child is found to have a heart murmur, consult a doctor or cardiologist for further evaluation.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause of the murmur. Innocent murmurs do not require treatment and usually resolve on their own. If the murmur is due to a heart condition, treatment may include medications, procedures to repair or replace heart valves, or surgery for congenital defects. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a doctor are important for managing any underlying issues.
Simple measures such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing other health conditions, and attending regular check-ups can support heart health. If new symptoms develop or existing symptoms worsen, consult a doctor promptly.
Prevention
There is no way to prevent innocent heart murmurs, but managing risk factors for heart disease and treating infections promptly can help prevent some pathological murmurs. Good dental hygiene is important to reduce the risk of heart infections.
Takeaway
A heart murmur is often harmless, but it can sometimes indicate an underlying heart problem. Proper evaluation by a doctor is important to determine the cause and need for treatment. If you or your child is found to have a heart murmur, consult a doctor for assessment and guidance.