Heart murmurs in children: what parents need to know

Discovering a heart murmur in a child can be alarming, but this phenomenon is quite common and is not always a cause for concern. It’s important to distinguish between harmless and serious murmurs and to know when further evaluation is necessary.

What does a heart murmur in a child mean?

Did you know that one in three children aged 1 to 14 may have a heart murmur? Doctors often refer to it as an «innocent» or «functional» murmur. It typically arises because a child’s heart and blood vessels are actively growing and developing.

From birth to adolescence, a child’s body undergoes numerous changes, and the heart is no exception. As the body grows and physical activity increases, the heart and blood vessels adapt and expand. This is why heart murmurs may appear and disappear over time.

However, there are key details to understand. While most murmurs are harmless, in rare cases, they can signal serious issues such as congenital heart defects, inflammatory conditions, rheumatic damage, or cardiomyopathy.

That’s why it’s crucial not to ignore a heart murmur. If your doctor deems it necessary, additional tests like an electrocardiogram (ECG) or heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) can provide clarity. These steps ensure confidence in your child’s health and help detect any potential problems early.

How are heart murmurs diagnosed?

Once a doctor detects a murmur, the next step is a thorough examination. This may include an ECG or echocardiogram to assess the heart’s structure and function. It’s essential that these tests are overseen by a pediatric cardiologist, who can accurately differentiate between an innocent murmur and a pathological one.

When should you see a doctor?

If your child has a heart murmur accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, swelling, or excessive fatigue, don’t delay consulting a cardiologist. Timely diagnosis can prevent the progression of serious conditions.

A heart murmur isn’t a sentence. In most cases, it’s completely harmless and a natural response to growth and development. Still, for your peace of mind, don’t skip a cardiologist consultation. Only a specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis. Our team at the «Doctor Sam» Medical Center is always ready to offer professional care and support, ensuring calm and confidence in your little one’s health.