It’s a sound no parent expects to hear: a heart murmur.
Yet, they’re one of the most common reasons children are referred to a pediatric cardiologist. While hearing a murmur can be concerning for parents, most heart murmurs in children are harmless. Still, proper evaluation is essential to determine whether the murmur is “innocent” or a sign of an underlying heart condition.
A heart murmur is an extra or unusual sound, often described as a whooshing or swishing, caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart or nearby vessels. It is typically detected during a routine physical exam using a stethoscope. In children, these sounds can be more noticeable because of their smaller chest size and faster heart rate. The majority of murmurs in kids are benign and don’t require treatment, but some may signal congenital heart defects that need specialized care.
Recognizing the difference between an innocent murmur and one that may indicate a structural heart issue is critical. That’s why families in the South Bay and surrounding communities can access expert cardiac care through the Torrance Outpatient Specialty Center, a satellite location of Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Conveniently located near the 405 freeway, the center offers cardiology consultations, expert evaluation, and diagnosis using advanced tools like echocardiograms and EKGs. This allows families to receive peace of mind and access to expert care without a long commute. Newborns and infants referred to cardiology are typically seen within one week, ensuring prompt evaluation and peace of mind for families
For children who require more extensive follow-up, the Torrance location serves as a direct link to comprehensive cardiac care available at the Children’s Heart Institute at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. There, a multidisciplinary team, including pediatric cardiologists, nurse specialists, and therapists, work together to help families navigate the challenges of heart conditions with both clinical expertise and emotional support.
When a murmur is linked to a congenital heart condition—such as a septal defect or valve abnormality—early diagnosis is key to determining the best course of care. At the Children’s Heart Institute, care plans are tailored to each child’s unique needs, ensuring age-appropriate treatment and long-term follow-up as they grow.
Beyond diagnosis and medical care, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital also prioritizes family education. Parents are given the tools and information they need to understand their child’s condition, recognize potential warning signs, and feel confident in making informed decisions about care.
Whether a child’s murmur turns out to be harmless or part of a more complex diagnosis, families can trust the team at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital to provide expert, compassionate care. From the first appointment to long-term management, we’re here to guide families and help children grow up strong, healthy, and full of heart.
About Dr. Mohammad Babak Rahimi:
Dr. Rahimi is a double board-certified physician who specializes in pediatric cardiology. Dr. Rahimi received his medical degree from St. Georges University, School of Medicine. His residency was at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and he completed his fellowship in Pediatric Cardiology at Cohen Children's Medical Center (formerly known as Schneider Children’s Hospital).
Dr. Rahimi has over 18 years of experience in treating children with heart problems and works very closely with primary care pediatricians to provide coordinated and comprehensive care. He previously practiced for 16 years at Saint Louis University and worked with patients at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Rahimi is a Fellow of the American Society of Echocardiography. Dr. Rahimi resides in the South Bay area and enjoys spending time with family and friends.
