HEART-SENSE
Two Types of Heart Murmurs
Innocent (Benign)
Innocent heart murmurs are extra sounds made as the blood travels through the heart. They generally require no treatment or change in activity.
Pathologic (Abnormal)
Pathologic heart murmurs are caused by an abnormality in the heart. They can be identified by the sound they make as the blood travels through the heart. This type of murmur can often be identified by a doctor but they may utilize tests to confirm. These heart murmurs can be accompanied by other symptoms including:
- shortness of breath
- sudden weight gain
- chronic cough
- enlarged liver or neck veins
- chest pain
- unexplained heavy sweating
Risk Factors for Heart Murmurs
Heart related conditions that increase your risk of Heart Murmurs are
- high blood pressure
- heart valve abnormalities
- Aortic Stenosis
- Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Additionally, other medical conditions including
- rheumatic fever
- endocarditis (infection)
There are also lifestyle factors that can increase your risk for Heart Murmurs. They include
- smoking
- caffeine exposure
- alcohol consumption
- lack of exercise
- eating foods high in fat
- cholesterol
- sodium intake
Additionally, being older than 65 increases your risk.
It is important to reduce your risk factors by managing your medications and making lifestyle changes. Reducing these can help reduce symptoms and your risk for complications.
