Clinics: The Holly · Spire London East · Spire Hartswood · Nuffield Brentwood
Dr Neeraj Jain
Consultant Paediatrician

Heart Murmurs in Children

A murmur is simply an extra sound the blood makes as it flows through the heart — and in most children it is completely innocent.

Understanding Murmurs

Most Murmurs Are Innocent — Let's Make Sure

Heart murmurs are one of the most common reasons children are referred to a cardiologist — often picked up at a routine GP visit or during an illness. The large majority are "innocent" flow murmurs in a structurally normal heart. A small number reflect an underlying condition, which is why a specialist assessment matters.

  • Detailed history and clinical examination
  • High-resolution echocardiogram to visualise the heart directly
  • 12-lead ECG where indicated
  • A clear explanation of what the murmur is — and isn't

If the murmur is innocent, you leave with definitive reassurance and no restrictions for your child. If a condition is found, you are already in expert hands, with a management plan started straight away.

Book a Murmur Assessment
When murmurs need closer attention
  • Murmur present with feeding difficulty or poor growth
  • Breathlessness or blue episodes (cyanosis)
  • A family history of congenital heart disease
  • Murmur persisting or sounding "different" to your GP
One visit, one answer.
Examination and echocardiogram are usually completed in a single appointment, so most families get their answer the same day.
Common Questions

Heart Murmur Questions

What causes an innocent murmur?

Innocent (or 'flow') murmurs are simply the sound of blood moving quickly through a normal heart — common during growth spurts, fevers or illness. They often come and go, and typically disappear as your child grows.

Does a murmur mean my child has heart disease?

Usually not. Most childhood murmurs occur in structurally normal hearts. An echocardiogram confirms this definitively, which is exactly what a specialist assessment provides.

Will my child need to avoid sport?

Children with innocent murmurs need no restrictions at all. If an underlying condition is found, Dr Jain will give you specific, practical guidance on safe activity.

Ready for Expert Answers?

Book an appointment with Dr Jain — clear diagnosis, honest reassurance and a plan you can trust.

Book an Appointment