Innocent murmur

Innocent Murmur

An Innocent Murmur is a type of heart murmur that is not associated with any form of heart disease or health condition. These murmurs are common in children and are typically harmless. They are often detected during routine medical examinations and can cause concern due to their association with heart murmurs, which can be indicative of serious heart conditions.

Definition

Innocent murmurs, also known as functional or physiological murmurs, are sounds made by the blood circulating through the heart's chambers and valves, or through blood vessels near the heart. They are often more audible in children due to their thinner chest walls and faster heart rates.

Causes

Innocent murmurs are caused by the normal flow of blood through the heart. They can be more noticeable during periods of rapid growth, when the heart is beating faster, during pregnancy, or during physical activity. They are not caused by heart disease or any other medical condition.

Diagnosis

Innocent murmurs are typically diagnosed during a physical examination. The doctor will listen to the heart with a stethoscope to determine the type and location of the murmur. Additional tests such as an echocardiogram or electrocardiogram may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any underlying heart conditions.

Treatment

Innocent murmurs do not require treatment as they do not pose a risk to health. They often disappear as a child grows older, but can sometimes be heard in adulthood. Regular check-ups are usually sufficient to monitor the condition.

See Also

• Heart Murmur
• Echocardiogram
• Electrocardiogram