A murmur is a soft, faint sound that can be heard when listening to the heart with a stethoscope. It is often described as a “whooshing” or “swishing” noise, and can be caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart or blood vessels. Murmurs are quite common and can be harmless, but in some cases, they may indicate an underlying heart problem.
There are many different types of murmurs, classified based on their timing in the heartbeat cycle, location on the chest, and intensity. Innocent murmurs, also known as functional or physiological murmurs, are typically harmless and do not require any treatment. They are common in children and young adults, and usually disappear on their own over time.
However, abnormal murmurs may be indicative of heart conditions such as valve disorders, congenital heart defects, or infections. In these cases, further testing and evaluation by a healthcare professional may be necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Regular check-ups with a doctor can help monitor any changes in the heart’s sounds and ensure early detection and management of any potential issues.