Heart Murmurs
Also known as: Cardiac murmur, Heart sound abnormality, Innocent heart murmur, Functional murmur, Pathological murmur
Expert diagnosis and management at Complete Heart Centre. All consultations and diagnostic tests are 100% bulk billed through Medicare. All cardiology referrals accepted.
About Heart Murmurs
A heart murmur is an extra or unusual sound heard through a stethoscope during a heartbeat. Many murmurs are harmless (innocent or functional murmurs), particularly in children and young adults, and do not indicate any heart problem. However, some murmurs indicate an underlying valve problem or structural heart abnormality that requires specialist assessment and monitoring. Pathological murmurs can be caused by valve stenosis (narrowing), regurgitation (leaking), or structural defects such as a hole in the heart. The only way to definitively determine whether a murmur is innocent or pathological is with an echocardiogram.
Common Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms (detected by GP during examination)
- Shortness of breath if caused by significant valve disease
- Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
- Chest pain in some cases
- Swelling in legs or feet if valve disease is advanced
- Dizziness or fainting if caused by aortic stenosis
When to See a Cardiologist
If your GP has heard a heart murmur during a physical examination, they may refer you to a cardiologist to determine whether it is innocent or caused by a valve abnormality. Even if you have no symptoms, an echocardiogram is recommended to characterise the murmur and guide future management.
How We Investigate
An echocardiogram is the definitive test for evaluating a heart murmur. It shows the structure and function of all four heart valves and can determine whether the murmur is harmless or requires treatment or monitoring. The test is painless, takes 30-45 minutes, and is fully bulk billed through Medicare.
$0
Your cost with Medicare
Related Diagnostic Services
Need Urgent Help?
If you are experiencing sudden or severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, call 000 immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about heart murmurs.
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Concerned About Heart Murmurs?
With a Medicare card and GP referral, your specialist consultation and all diagnostic tests are fully bulk billed. Book at our Sydenham, Bundoora or Williams Landing clinic.