Blåsljud

Blåsljud, often translated as heart murmur, is a sound heard during a heartbeat cycle that is caused by turbulent blood flow within the heart. This turbulent flow can occur when blood passes through narrowed valves, across leaky valves, or through abnormal openings in the heart walls. Blåsljud are often detected using a stethoscope during a physical examination.

There are two main categories of blåsljud: innocent (or functional) and pathological (or organic). Innocent blåsljud are common, especially in children, and are not caused by any underlying heart condition. They are often temporary and disappear as the child grows. Pathological blåsljud, on the other hand, indicate an underlying heart defect or disease that requires medical attention. These can include conditions like valvular heart disease, congenital heart defects, or heart muscle problems.

The characteristics of a blåsljud, such as its timing within the heartbeat (systolic or diastolic), its loudness, pitch, and location on the chest, provide important clues to its cause. Further diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, or chest X-ray, may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the blåsljud and to assess its severity. Treatment, if needed, will depend on the underlying condition.