What are the causes of a heart murmur?

1. Congenital heart defects

Congenital heart defects are present at birth and can cause a heart murmur. These defects can range from mild to severe and may require treatment. Some common congenital heart defects that can cause a heart murmur include:

* Atrial septal defect (ASD)

* Ventricular septal defect (VSD)

* Tetralogy of Fallot

* Transposition of the great arteries

* Aortic stenosis

* Pulmonary stenosis

2. Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a condition that can develop after a bacterial infection, such as strep throat. Rheumatic fever can damage the heart valves, causing them to leak or narrow. This can lead to a heart murmur.

3. Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart, including the heart valves. Endocarditis can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Endocarditis can damage the heart valves, causing them to leak or narrow. This can lead to a heart murmur.

4. Mitral valve prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse is a condition in which the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium from the left ventricle, does not close properly. This can cause a heart murmur. Mitral valve prolapse is often harmless, but it can sometimes lead to complications, such as heart failure.

5. Aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis is a condition in which the aortic valve, which separates the left ventricle from the aorta, narrows. This can cause a heart murmur. Aortic stenosis can be mild or severe and may require treatment.

6. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This can lead to a heart murmur. Hyperthyroidism is often treated with medication or surgery.

7. Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which the blood does not have enough red blood cells. This can lead to a heart murmur. Anemia is often treated with iron supplements or other medications.

8. Pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause a heart murmur. This is usually due to the increased blood volume that occurs during pregnancy. The heart murmur usually goes away after pregnancy.