Sydänäänet

Sydänäänet is a Finnish term that translates to "heart sounds" in English. These sounds are produced by the heart during the cardiac cycle as the heart valves open and close. Typically, two main heart sounds are heard with a stethoscope: S1 and S2.

S1, often described as "lub," is the first heart sound and occurs at the beginning of systole, when the atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid) close. This closure prevents the backflow of blood into the atria during ventricular contraction. The intensity and timing of S1 can vary and are influenced by factors such as the speed of the heartbeat and the position of the valves.

S2, described as "dub," is the second heart sound and occurs at the beginning of diastole, when the semilunar valves (aortic and pulmonary) close. This closure prevents the backflow of blood into the ventricles from the aorta and pulmonary artery after they have been emptied. S2 is often split, meaning the aortic and pulmonary components can be heard separately, especially during inspiration.

In addition to S1 and S2, abnormal heart sounds, known as murmurs or extra heart sounds, can be heard. These can indicate various cardiac conditions, such as valve defects or shunts. The study and interpretation of sydänäänet are crucial aspects of cardiovascular examination in medicine, helping physicians diagnose and monitor heart health.