A healthcare provider may detect a heart murmur by listening to the chest with a stethoscope. A heart murmur is a whooshing or swishing noise heard between heartbeats, and these typically result from turbulent blood flow in the heart. While some murmurs do not indicate a problem, others may reflect structural heart conditions that require further medical attention.
What Is a Heart Murmur?
A heart murmur refers to abnormal sounds heard during the heartbeat cycle, caused by irregular blood flow within the heart. The classic “lub-dub” heartbeat comes from valves closing; a murmur is a sound on top of this rhythm. Innocent murmurs are common in infants, children, and adults. These do not result from heart disease and are often experienced during certain states, like pregnancy. Innocent murmurs are generally harmless and do not require intervention.
Abnormal murmurs are a possible underlying cardiac issue. Abnormal murmurs often relate to issues with the heart valves and result from narrowing or leakage, or to previous infections. These murmurs may indicate structural defects present since birth in children, such as septal defects (holes in the heart walls) or valve irregularities.
How Are They Diagnosed?
Heart murmurs can be detected during an examination and are first identified with a stethoscope. A provider notes the timing, intensity, pitch, and location of the murmur. If there is suspicion of an abnormal murmur, further diagnostic tests may be recommended:
- Echocardiogram: This non-invasive ultrasound produces moving images that help evaluate heart chamber size, pumping ability, valve function, and potential structural abnormalities.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records electrical signals of the heart and can reveal abnormal rhythms or evidence of heart muscle enlargement.
- Chest X-ray: Used to determine heart size and shape, and to detect changes that could result from heart conditions.
These tools allow clinicians to distinguish between innocent murmurs and those associated with anatomical or functional heart changes.
How Are They Treated?
Treatment for heart murmurs depends on their underlying cause. The clinical approach is determined by factors such as the severity of the murmur, associated symptoms, overall health of the patient, and the specific diagnosis made through imaging and laboratory studies. No medical or surgical treatment is needed for innocent murmurs, and individuals can usually lead normal lives with routine health monitoring.
Management for abnormal murmurs is tailored to the specific heart abnormality identified. Medications may be prescribed to improve heart function, helping to control symptoms. Common therapeutic classes include medication for fluid management and medication to reduce the risk of clots.
Some valve defects or congenital heart issues require surgical repair or replacement. Procedures might include repairing a damaged valve or inserting a prosthetic valve. Patching structural defects via cardiac catheterization or open-heart techniques may be necessary in severe cases.
Consult a Cardiovascular Specialist
If a heart murmur is detected, consulting a cardiovascular specialist can offer a thorough evaluation and guide any needed next steps. Cardiologists use detailed diagnostic tools to clarify the source of the murmur and its significance. Not all murmurs indicate pathology, but an accurate diagnosis can clarify whether ongoing observation, medical therapy, or a procedure may be needed. Working with a specialist supports informed decisions regarding heart health and long-term well-being.
