Heart Murmur
Heart Murmur
A heart murmur is an unusual sound heard during a heartbeat, often described as a whooshing or swishing noise.
These unusual sounds occur when blood flows more turbulently than normal through the heart or its surrounding blood vessels. While many murmurs are harmless (innocent murmurs), others can indicate underlying heart problems. Heart murmurs are a common finding during routine medical check-ups and are often detected when your doctor listens to your heart using a stethoscope.
Though many heart murmurs are benign, some may signal heart valve issues or congenital heart defects. In Australia, heart murmurs are a condition seen across age groups, but their prevalence increases in individuals with heart disease and congenital heart abnormalities.
In Australia, congenital heart disease, which often presents with heart murmurs, affects approximately 1 in 100 babies born each year (Health Direct, 2025). Heart valve diseases that cause murmurs are also common in older adults, particularly affecting those over 65. Early diagnosis and management are key in preventing complications, with about 30% of the elderly population potentially experiencing murmurs related to heart valve disorders (Heart murmurs in the general population: diagnostic value and prevalence from the Tromsø Study, 2025).
Approach
We are committed to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality care with empathy.
Experts
With over 20 specialists, you can count on us to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.
Technology
Our clinics are equipped with advanced systems, enabling us to safely and efficiently access your records, results and investigations.
Facilities
Our facilities offer modern diagnostics, centralised patient records, streamlined booking, and compassionate, efficient care for all.
Things you want to know
- Unusual whooshing or swishing sounds heard through a stethoscope
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain (in some cases)
Many people with innocent murmurs may not experience any noticeable symptoms, while others with more severe conditions may exhibit these signs.
Heart murmurs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Innocent murmurs: Often found in healthy individuals, especially in children and athletes, these do not typically indicate heart disease.
- Abnormal murmurs: These can result from structural heart problems like:
- Congenital heart defects (e.g., atrial or ventricular septal defects)
- Valve calcification or hardening (stenosis)
- Valve regurgitation (leaking of blood back into the heart)
- Rheumatic fever damage to heart valves
- Endocarditis (infection of the inner lining of the heart)
To determine the cause and severity of a heart murmur, several diagnostic tests may be recommended:
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
- Chest X-ray: Assesses the size and shape of the heart.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities.
- Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
Cardiac catheterisation: Measures pressure in the heart chambers and blood vessels to evaluate valve function
While innocent heart murmurs rarely lead to complications, abnormal murmurs can be associated with serious heart conditions, such as:
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Blood clots
- Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
- Infective endocarditis (infection in the heart lining)
Treatment for a heart murmur depends on its underlying cause. For innocent murmurs, no treatment is required. For abnormal murmurs caused by heart conditions, the following options may be considered:
- Medication: To manage symptoms, reduce blood pressure, or prevent blood clots.
- Surgery: For repairing or replacing damaged heart valves.
- Lifestyle changes: To reduce stress on the heart, including maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and quitting smoking.
Commonly Asked Questions
No, not all heart murmurs are dangerous. Innocent murmurs are harmless and often go away on their own. Abnormal murmurs, however, may indicate a more serious condition.
Heart murmurs are detected using a stethoscope during a physical examination. If a murmur is detected, further tests, like an echocardiogram, may be needed to determine the cause.
Innocent murmurs can disappear over time, especially in children. However, abnormal murmurs related to structural heart issues may persist or worsen if not treated.
It depends on whether the murmur is classified as innocent or abnormal. Your doctor will recommend further evaluation if the murmur is of concern.
Lifestyle changes, such as eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking, can help manage symptoms related to abnormal murmurs and improve overall heart health.
