A heart murmur is an extra sound heard during a heartbeat, which can be described as a blowing, whooshing, or rasping sound. It is caused by turbulent or abnormal blood flow across the heart valves. Heart murmurs can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). Some heart murmurs are harmless (innocent) and do not require treatment, while others may be a sign of a serious heart condition.

In adults, heart murmurs are usually due to one of the four valves within the heart beginning to malfunction. Doctors can determine the location of a heart murmur by listening with a stethoscope and performing tests. The type of treatment needed for an abnormal heart murmur varies depending on the location and cause of the problem.

Some common causes of heart murmurs in adults include:

• Aortic sclerosis and stenosis: scarring, thickening, or stiffening of the aortic valve, which can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.
• Anemia: a condition where there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to body tissues.
• High blood pressure.
• Overactive thyroid.
• Fever.

If you are concerned about a heart murmur, it is recommended to make an appointment with your primary care provider. Your provider can tell you if follow-up care is needed.