What type of murmur is associated with aortic stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is characterized by a systolic murmur. This condition occurs when the aortic valve does not open fully, resulting in a flow obstruction from the left ventricle into the aorta during systole, which is the phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart is contracting.

The systolic murmur in aortic stenosis typically has a characteristic "crescendo-decrescendo" shape, meaning it increases in intensity and then decreases before the heart reaches the end of systole. This type of murmur is best heard at the right second intercostal space, where the aortic valve is located, and it may also radiate to the carotid arteries.

Understanding the timing and nature of heart murmurs is critical for healthcare providers, as it aids in identifying underlying cardiac conditions. Diastolic murmurs are associated with conditions such as aortic regurgitation and mitral stenosis, while a continuous murmur typically occurs with conditions like patent ductus arteriosus.