Updated: 10/4/23
Are you worried that a murmuring heart means your health is in jeopardy? Don’t panic just yet! Murmurs, also known as a heart murmur, are common and typically harmless; however, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers associated with them. In this blog post, we’ll explore what exactly a murmur is, its risk factors and how to manage it so you can live life with peace of mind. Get ready to take control of your cardiovascular health – let’s dive into all things concerning murmurs!
What is a Heart Murmur?
So, what is a heart murmur? Simply put, it’s an extra sound that your heart makes when it beats. This sound is caused by a disturbance in the blood flow through your heart. Most heart murmurs are not considered serious and do not require any medical treatment. In fact, it’s estimated that up to half of all children may have a heart murmur at some point in their lives. However, in some cases, heart murmurs may be a sign of an underlying heart condition that requires attention.
As the name suggests, a heart murmur refers to irregular sounds in the heartbeat cycle. This condition causes the heart to make swishing or whooshing sounds as it beats. The sound results from irregular blood turbulence in the heart. Doctors usually use a stethoscope to listen to the heart for murmurs. A healthy heart makes consistent, two-part thumping sounds when the heart valves open and close, but a murmur interrupts the pattern.
Like other cardiac disorders, patients may have a heart murmur from birth or they may develop the symptom later in life. On its own, it may not be a cause for concern. However, it may signal a more serious underlying medical condition. A heart murmur is often the first sign that a patient has another condition that affects the heart valves.
Characteristics of Heart Murmurs
Innocent Heart Murmurs
With this type of heart murmur, patients have a healthy, normal-functioning heart. But blood flows through the heart faster than normal, making a different sound than a normal heartbeat. Innocent heart murmurs are also called functional or physiologic murmurs. They are common in infants and children, but they usually disappear by the time they reach adulthood. There is no underlying health condition.
Abnormal Heart Murmurs
This type is more serious. Usually, they are the result of congenital heart disease in children or acquired heart valve problems in adults. An innocent heart murmur does not cause any other symptoms, but an abnormal heart murmur may have an underlying heart problem that does cause symptoms:
- Rapid breathing
- Difficulty feeding (in children)
- Weight gain
- Blue lips or fingertips
- Failure to thrive
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, liver, neck veins or stomach
- Difficulty with exercise or physical activity
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
Measuring Heart Murmurs
Doctors use a stethoscope to examine heart murmurs by assessing the heart’s timing, duration, tonal quality and pitch. There are two main types: systolic and diastolic. In a systolic heart murmur, the swishing sound occurs between the first and second sound. On the other hand, diastolic murmurs happen after the second sound.
Doctors describe the timing as early systolic, mid-systolic or late systolic. Duration refers to how long the abnormal sounds occur between heartbeats. For instance, holosystolic murmurs occur throughout systole. Heart murmurs can also be described using pitch — low, medium or high.
There are various classifications to describe the shape of a heart murmur, including crescendo and decrescendo. The former refers to a heart murmur that increases in intensity, while the latter describes one that decreases in intensity.
The intensity of a heart murmur refers to its loudness. It is measured on a scale of one to six, with one being faint and six being loud enough to hear without a stethoscope. Intensity could help determine whether a heart murmur is dangerous or not. For instance, a heart murmur of grade three or above indicates that significant blood flow turbulence exists, suggesting that there may be an underlying heart condition.
What Does Heart Murmur Feel Like?
Heart murmurs can vary in intensity and character, and people may experience different sensations associated with them. Some individuals may not feel anything at all. However, others may experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or fatigue. These symptoms may occur with murmurs caused by heart valve abnormalities or blood flow obstructions.
Causes of Heart Murmurs
Innocent Heart Murmurs
Innocent heart murmurs occur when blood moves much more rapidly through the heart than normally. They occur without any underlying medical condition. Innocent murmurs may be caused by:
Innocent heart murmurs may disappear over time or they may last an entire lifetime without causing any adverse health effects. However, abnormal heart murmurs are associated with another condition.
Congenital Heart Defects
One common cause of heart murmurs in babies and children is congenital heart defects or problems with the structure of the heart. Congenital defects are present at birth.
Septal Defects
In a septal defect, the patient has a hole between the right and left sides of the heart. The severity depends on their size and location. It causes abnormalities in blood flow between the heart chambers and heart vessels, causing irregular sounds in heartbeat.
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Before birth, a fetus’ heart has a channel called a ductus arteriosus. The channel links the pulmonary artery and the aorta, which enables blood to bypass the lungs because the fetus does not breathe yet. However, the channel usually closes after birth and the infant starts breathing on its own. In some cases, the ductus arteriosus does not close and continues to function after birth, causing abnormal blood flow.
Heart Valve Abnormalities
Even though these abnormalities are present at birth, they may not be discovered until later in life. Heart valve disorders are one of the most common causes of heart murmurs. The valves in your heart work to regulate blood flow, and if they don’t work correctly, they can cause a heart murmur. There are different types of valve disorders, such as aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation, and pulmonary atresia, among others. An example of a congenital heart valve abnormality is aortic valve stenosis, a condition that causes constricted valves that do not let enough blood through them. In other cases, the heart valves may not close correctly and then leak blood. This condition is called regurgitation. If you have been diagnosed with a valve disorder, it is essential to follow up with your doctor regularly to prevent complications.
Aortic Valve Calcification
As patients age, calcium may accumulate on the heart valves, causing them to thicken. Thickened valves are more narrow and make it difficult for blood to flow through, causing heart murmurs.
Endocarditis
Patients may also have heart murmurs from an infection on the inner lining of the heart or valve, called endocarditis. The infection may develop from bacteria or other microorganisms that travel from other parts of the body — such as the mouth — and into the heart. Untreated, the infection can damage the heart valves.
Rheumatic Fever
Although this condition is rare, it may occur in patients who do not seek quick medical attention for strep throat infection. Rheumatic fever that spreads to the heart can cause permanent damage to the heart valves and interfere with normal blood flow in the heart, which can trigger heart murmurs.
Cardiac Myxoma
Rarely, benign non-cancerous tumors can grow inside the heart and obstruct blood flow. This condition often leads to a heart murmur.
Hyperthyroidism
One of the more uncommon traumas that can lead to heart murmurs is hyperthyroidism, where your overactive thyroid gland deposits too much thyroxine hormone into the bloodstream. The extra amount of hormones can lead to an irregular heartbeat, increasing the chances of developing a heart murmur.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition triggered by low iron levels that have an impact on the number of red blood cells in the body. When you have anemia, your heart may beat faster to compensate for the lack of oxygen in your blood. The result is a flow of blood that leads to turbulence and sounds like a heart murmur.
Rapid Blood Flow
Finally, rapid blood flow can also cause heart murmurs to develop. This is sometimes referred to as a physiologic heart murmur, where the blood flows much faster and stronger than usual. During highly physical activities like pregnancy, fever, or anemia, the blood flow can increase, leading to heart murmurs.
Risk Factors for Heart Murmurs
Family History of Cardiac Disorders
According to research, the likelihood of a heart murmur increases if a patient’s relatives exhibit a history of cardiac disorders.
Underlying Health Conditions
Other medical conditions may elevate the risk of an abnormal heart murmur. For example, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, carcinoid syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus may trigger a heart murmur.
Pregnancy
An infant is more likely to have a heart murmur after birth if the mother had a medical illness during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles) or diabetes. In addition, taking certain medications, drinking alcohol and using illicit drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital cardiac defects.
Heart Murmur and Palpitations
Heart murmurs and palpitations can occur due to various factors such as heart defects, infections, high blood pressure, and hyperthyroidism, among others. It is essential to consult a medical professional if you experience any of these symptoms.
The management of heart murmurs and palpitations depends on the underlying cause. A healthy lifestyle is also a crucial factor, which may include exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and managing stress levels. In some cases, medication or procedures such as surgery may be required.
Diagnosing Heart Murmurs
Heart murmurs are typically identified during a routine physical exam when a doctor listens to your heartbeat with a stethoscope. The physician will be listening for a whooshing or swishing sound that occurs in between beats. However, the sound alone does not always indicate a problem. An echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create a detailed picture of your heart, is typically necessary to diagnose the underlying issue.
If your doctor identifies an abnormal heart murmur, they will order additional tests to determine the severity of the underlying issue. These tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. Additional diagnostic testing can help determine the best course of treatment and prevent further complications.
Heart Murmur for Infants
If your healthcare provider suspects a heart murmur, they will listen to your baby’s heart with a stethoscope. They may also perform further testing such as an echocardiogram or electrocardiogram to determine the cause of the murmur. These tests allow the provider to get a closer look at the heart, its structure, and how it functions.
In most cases, babies with innocent heart murmurs do not require any treatment. The murmurs often go away on their own as the baby grows and the heart develops. However, if the murmur is caused by an underlying heart problem, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options can vary depending on the condition, but may include medication, surgery, or other procedures. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and to keep all follow-up appointments to ensure your baby’s heart is functioning properly.
Can Heart Murmur Go Away?
It is possible to get rid of an abnormal heart murmur by treating the underlying condition causing it. For example, treating valve disease through medication or surgery can remove the murmur. In some cases, a heart murmur may disappear spontaneously as an individual gets older. However, this process takes time, and if it’s beneficial, regular monitoring by a doctor is necessary.
Heart Murmur Treatment
Treatment for a heart murmur depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is innocent, the patient does not require treatment because it is not associated with any health condition. The patient has a normal heart structure and the symptom does not raise any concerns. It may even disappear on its own.
The murmur itself does not need treatment. However, if it signals another heart condition, the patient may require treatment for that, depending on the cause and any other symptoms. Treatment options include surgery, medication or a valve replacement procedure.
Medication
Depending on the condition that causes the heart murmur, a doctor may prescribe different medications. If the murmur is caused by an underlying health condition, the focus is on treating that issue. Medications, such as antibiotics or diuretics, may be prescribed to treat an infection or high blood pressure. If the patient has high blood pressure, they may take ACE inhibitors or beta blockers to regulate it. Anticoagulants can help prevent blood clots and statins can help lower cholesterol and keep heart problems from getting worse. The patient may also take diuretics to eliminate excess water and salt from the body and make it easier for the heart to pump blood (x).
Surgery
If medications do not solve the problem on their own, the patient may need a surgical procedure to address the cause of the murmur. A doctor may perform a surgery for structural support repair or valve leaflet repair.
One of the most commonly performed surgeries to treat heart murmurs is open-heart surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will open the patient’s chest to access the heart. The surgeon will then repair or replace the affected valve or perform any other necessary repairs. This surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia and may require the use of a heart-lung machine.
Another type of surgery used to treat heart murmurs is cardiac catheterization. In this procedure, a small tube is inserted into the patient’s blood vessels and threaded up to the heart. The surgeon can then repair or replace the affected valve or make any other necessary repairs without the need for open-heart surgery.
The patient may also need a valve replacement procedure, such as open heart surgery or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). An open heart surgery removes the damaged valve and replaces it with an artificial one. The artificial valve is either made of metal or tissue from a human donor. However, TAVR is a less invasive procedure. The doctor makes an incision in a vein in the leg or the chest to install the artificial valve.
Finally, minimally invasive surgery, such as robotic heart surgery, may be an option for some patients. This type of surgery is typically performed through smaller incisions and with the help of a robotic system. While not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery, it can provide a shorter recovery time and less scarring.
Heart Murmur Prevention
Preventing heart murmurs involves maintaining a healthy heart and lifestyle. While many heart murmurs are harmless, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing a heart murmur or other heart condition. Some preventative measures include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, managing weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Regular check-ups with your physician can also detect any underlying conditions that could lead to a heart murmur, so catch it early. Additionally, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, as poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Supplements for Heart Health
In addition to medical treatment, patients may also increase and maintain heart health with dietary supplements. They may provide a number of benefits to cardio health. However, they are not a medical treatment and may not be safe for all patients. Always consult a doctor before taking supplements.
Magnesium
Magnesium promotes oral and immune health, as well as cardiac health by regulating blood pressure. It may also be able to help prevent a congenital heart murmur by promoting healthy pregnancies. It can prevent eclamptic seizures and protect the heart from high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can cause serious complications. Medical researchers also state that magnesium can help treat an irregular heartbeat. The mineral supports a wide range of bodily reactions to keep the bones, heart, muscles and nerves healthy. Leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts and yogurt are all rich in magnesium. However, sometimes people do not get enough of it through the diet, so supplements are another option.
The recommended dosage for magnesium citrate powder is 4,400 mg (1 ½ tsp) daily mixed with liquids. Consult a doctor for approval. Magnesium is generally safe in proper doses. However, side effects may include indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. It is likely safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding in smaller doses. It may not be safe for patients with bleeding disorders, kidney problems, heart block, immune diseases or inflammatory bowel disease.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fatty acids make up the fat in the body and in food. There are several different types of fatty acids and omega 3-6-9 are three of them. Omega-3 fatty acids are responsible for lowering triglyceride levels. High triglyceride levels can increase the risk for heart disease. It can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which causes diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis. Omega-6 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and omega-9 fatty acids can help reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure.
There are food sources that include fatty acids — walnuts, fatty fish, corn, eggs, avocado, olive oil — but supplements are also available to ensure a fixed, consistent dosage. The supplement contains a wide range of oils rich in essential fatty acids. It may promote cardiac health and help minimize inflammation in the body. Take three omega 3-6-9 softgels once or twice daily, with a doctor’s approval. However, some patients may develop side effects such as bloating, burping and upset stomach. Contact a doctor if it causes itching, swelling or a rash.
Vitamin D
This product promotes cardiac health by regulating the hormone that controls calcium consumption and absorption. Another significant benefit is its easy absorption into the body. Lack of vitamin D in the body is associated with various health complications, including osteomalacia and osteoporosis. In addition to calcium, it also helps the body absorb magnesium and supports metabolic processes with vitamin A.
Though it has many different benefits, vitamin D may be toxic in large amounts. Therefore, it’s important to carefully measure the right proportions. Avoid using this product without an accurate milligram scale. Overdose may cause irritability, irregular heartbeat, weight loss, nausea, constipation, seizures and weak muscles. The healthy serving portion for vitamin D3 supplements is 50 mg per day, unless a physician advises against it.
Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10)
Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10) is a strong antioxidant that boosts energy levels and ensures cardiac health. It has a long history as a medical treatment for heart problems. COQ10 occurs in almost all cells in the body and rid the body of free radical damage. It may also help regulate blood pressure and benefit patients with heart failure, coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis, according to research.
Food sources include heart, liver, kidney, fish, dairy, nuts and seeds, cauliflower, broccoli and sweet potato. COQ10 is also available as a supplement. For best results, take this product in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise for muscle, skin, bone, brain, immune and heart health. The recommended serving size for coenzyme Q10 (COQ10) powder is between 50 and 200 mg per day. Make sure to use an accurate milligram scale and always consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
Garlic
Garlic is a superfood that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It has many health benefits, including promoting heart health. Research has shown that garlic can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease. Garlic supplements are a convenient way to reap the benefits without having to eat copious amounts of garlic.
L-Citrulline
Athletes often use L-citrulline as a supplement to increase performance. However, it may also regulate blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. It reduces blood vessel dilation, which helps control blood flow and prevents excess pressure. Studies state that it may also help boost the immune system because it acts as a neutrophil, a type of white blood cell that fights infection. This may be beneficial for heart murmurs because they can develop from an infection.
The recommended dosage for L-citrulline powder is 3,000 mg (1 tsp) per day, unless a doctor recommends a different dosage. Most likely, this product does not cause adverse side effects in the correct dosage. However, patients who are pregnant or nursing should avoid this supplement and so should patients with a history of liver or kidney problems.
The Bottom Line
Heart murmurs are a symptom that causes a heart irregularity that makes swishing sounds between the regular two-part heartbeat. There are two types of heart murmurs: innocent and abnormal. The former occurs without any specific cause. They are common in infants and children and may disappear as the patient ages. On the other hand, the latter signals another problem in the heart. The murmur itself does not require treatment, but the underlying heart condition might.
There are various factors that may cause a heart murmur, including congenital heart defects, cardiac infections, high blood pressure, valve calcification or rheumatic fever (x). Some patients do not have any symptoms other than the murmur, but others may experience others. Common symptoms of a heart murmur include general weakness, fatigue, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath and swelling in the body (x). If the patient requires treatment, a doctor may prescribe medication or perform surgery or a valve replacement procedure.
In summary, taking supplements can be an effective way to promote heart health and reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, magnesium, vitamin D, and garlic are just a few examples of supplements that can benefit your heart. However, it’s important to remember that supplements should not replace a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you’re taking prescription medications or have an underlying health condition. Taking care of your heart is crucial, and incorporating supplements into your routine can help keep your heart healthy for years to come.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease