Heart Murmurs in Newborns and Children What to Know

Heart murmurs are common in newborns and children.

Most heart murmurs are innocent and don't cause any problems.

A heart murmur can be a sign of a heart problem, so it's important to see a doctor if your child has a heart murmur.

The doctor will listen to your child's heart and lungs and may order tests such as an echocardiogram, or electrocardiogram to check for an underlying heart problem.

If your child has an innocent heart murmur, you may be advised to:

* Watch for signs of other health problems, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness.

* See a doctor regularly so that your child's heart can be monitored.

* Avoid activities that may put a strain on their heart, such as smoking, excessive drinking, or strenuous exercise.

Most innocent heart murmurs will go away on their own by the time your child is an adult. If your child does have a heart condition, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious problems.