Heart Murmur
A heart murmur is a sound detected when a doctor listens to your child's heart. In most cases, it is harmless. We are here to give your family answers and peace of mind.
What is a Heart Murmur?
A heart murmur is an extra sound heard between heartbeats through a stethoscope. Most murmurs in children are 'innocent' — meaning they are caused by normal blood flow through a normal heart and require no treatment.
Common Causes
Innocent murmurs can occur during fever, illness, or periods of rapid growth. Structural murmurs are caused by abnormalities such as septal defects (holes in the heart), valve problems, or other congenital conditions.
When to See a Pediatric Cardiologist
Your pediatrician may refer your child if a murmur sounds unusual, if your child has symptoms such as shortness of breath or poor weight gain, or if they want to confirm the murmur is innocent.
What to Expect at Your Visit
We will review your child's history and perform a thorough exam. Depending on findings, we may order an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or EKG. Many families leave the same day with a clear explanation and reassurance.
Is a Heart Murmur Dangerous?
The vast majority of murmurs in children are innocent and require no treatment or restriction. When a murmur does indicate an underlying condition, early detection allows us to create a timely, appropriate plan.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences:
- Chest pain or tightness, especially with activity
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Sudden or significant shortness of breath
- Blue or gray tint to lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
- Rapid weight gain or new swelling in the legs or abdomen
- Extreme fatigue or difficulty feeding in infants
Our Approach
- Listen carefully to your child's full history and symptoms
- Perform a thorough physical examination
- Order diagnostic testing (echo, EKG) when clinically indicated
- Explain our findings in clear, jargon-free language
- Create a monitoring or treatment plan tailored to your child
- Communicate results directly with your referring provider
Frequently Asked Questions
Have concerns about your child's heart?
We're here to help.