Heart Murmur Evaluation.
Alexandra Channing, MD
Board-certified pediatric cardiologist, with expertise in fetal cardiology
Reviewed Nov 2026
A heart murmur is an extra sound heard through a stethoscope. Many are harmless, but the sound alone does not always tell you whether the heart is normal, and occasionally a murmur is the first sign of a heart condition. I evaluate infants, children, and teens with heart murmurs across North County San Diego, based in Vista.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a heart murmur?
A heart murmur is an extra sound heard through a stethoscope during a physical exam. It is caused by blood flowing through the heart. Some murmurs are normal and don't mean anything is wrong - similar to normal pipeline sounds in a house. Some murmurs, though, can signal a structural problem like a hole in the heart or a leaky valve. I will help sort that out and give you a clear plan.
Are heart murmurs common in children?
Yes. Murmurs are common in children, and they are one of the leading reasons families are referred to a pediatric cardiologist. Many are innocent. How likely that is depends on a child's age and history, and occasionally a murmur is the only sign of a heart condition.
When should I seek care sooner?
Contact a doctor promptly or seek urgent medical care if a murmur comes along with trouble breathing, difficulty feeding or poor weight gain, sweating during feeds, a bluish tint to the tongue or gums, or any other symptom that concerns you.
What happens at a murmur evaluation?
I review your child's history, do a complete cardiac physical examination, and perform an ECG (heart rhythm test). I add an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) when it is clinically indicated, which gives the clearest picture of how the heart is built. Then I explain what I found and give you a clear plan. Learn more about the comprehensive pediatric cardiac evaluation and how to prepare for your evaluation.
Will my child need treatment or activity restrictions?
That depends on what the evaluation shows. A harmless (innocent) murmur does not call for treatment or limits on activity. If a structural problem is found, next steps are matched to your child's diagnosis, and I will go through the options with you. Learn more about congenital heart disease care.
Still have a question? Send us a message.
References
- Villafañe J, Sexson Tejtel SK. Heart Murmur. HealthyChildren.org, American Academy of Pediatrics. Last updated April 25, 2025. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/heart/Pages/Heart-Murmur.aspx
- O'Meara D. Evaluation of Heart Murmurs in Children. JAMA Pediatr. 2023;177(8):874. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.1376. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2806207