Understanding Heart Murmurs: Causes, Types, and Significance - written by Harsha varthini.B (Managing Editor, Bisjhintus News)

This article explores  the phenomenon of heart murmurs, shedding light on their origins and potential implications.

When a doctor listens to the typical heartbeat of "lub-dub," they may occasionally encounter additional whooshing or rasping sounds, known as heart murmurs. Dr. Alica, a cardiology professor, explains that these murmurs signify turbulent blood flow through the heart's valves. While some murmurs may be benign, others could indicate underlying valve issues requiring further assessment.

The article breaks down the normal heartbeat sounds, attributing  "lub" to the closure of valves between the atria and ventricles and "dub" to the closure of valves separating the heart from arteries . Disruptions in this blood flow can introduce whooshing or rasping sounds characteristic of heart murmurs.

Structural abnormalities, such as valve issues, holes in the heart, or irregular blood flow patterns, can cause heart murmurs. Infectious diseases like bacterial endocarditis and rheumatic fever may also contribute. "Innocent" or "physiological" heart murmurs result from increased blood flow during growth spurts, common in babies and young individuals. Approximately 10% of adults and 30% of children aged 3 to 7 experience innocent heart murmurs.

Pregnancy can bring about benign murmurs due to increased blood volume, particularly between weeks 12 to 20. An overactive thyroid, untreated high blood pressure, and intense exercise are additional factors linked to heart murmurs.

While innocent heart murmurs typically present no symptoms, abnormal murmurs associated with structural differences or heart disease may manifest as breathing difficulties, chest pain, weight gain, and other symptoms. Babies and young children with abnormal murmurs may exhibit feeding problems, poor growth, and fussiness.

Common risk factors for heart murmurs include intravenous drug use and a family history of cardiac defects. Ellenbogen notes that existing heart murmurs may become louder during a fever or anemia, impacting blood thickness and necessitating faster blood pumping.

The article concludes by emphasizing its informational purpose and clarifies that it does not provide medical advice.