What are things to watch for with heart murmurs?

Find the cause: The majority of heart murmurs are "innocent", and they even develop as a result of becoming an accomplished athlete. Find the cause. It may warn of treatable illness, it may be something that needs watching, it may be one of those valve problems that requires antibiotic prophylaxis for endocarditis when you visit the dentist or have other procedures.

Have it Checked: A murmur is the sound of blood rushing through the heart or heart valves. Many times there is nothing to worry about. However if you feel winded, or palpitations, or chest discomfort - especially when you exert yourself, these could be warning signs of a more serious problem. The way to check is to have an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of your heart and heart valves.