what is a bruit

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

15-03-2025

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A bruit (pronounced "broo-ee") is an unusual sound, typically a whooshing or blowing sound, heard when listening to a blood vessel with a stethoscope. It's an abnormal finding, indicating turbulent blood flow within an artery. Unlike a heart murmur, which originates from the heart itself, a bruit is specifically associated with the arteries. Understanding bruits is crucial for diagnosing potential vascular problems.

What Causes a Bruit?

Bruits are caused by turbulent blood flow within an artery. This turbulence can arise from several factors:

• Narrowing of the artery (stenosis): This is a common cause. Atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque on artery walls, is a major contributor to stenosis, leading to a characteristic whooshing bruit.
• Aneurysms: An aneurysm is a bulge or widening in an artery wall. The altered blood flow within an aneurysm can also create a bruit.
• Fistulas: These are abnormal connections between arteries and veins. The rapid blood flow through a fistula can generate a bruit.
• Increased blood flow: Sometimes, an increased blood flow through a normal artery, such as during exercise, can create a temporary bruit. This isn't typically cause for concern.

Where Can Bruits Be Heard?

Bruits can be heard in various arteries throughout the body, including:

• Carotid arteries: Located in the neck, these arteries supply blood to the brain. A carotid bruit can indicate significant carotid artery disease.
• Abdominal aorta: This is the main artery supplying blood to the abdomen and legs. An abdominal bruit may suggest an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
• Renal arteries: These arteries supply blood to the kidneys. A renal bruit can indicate renal artery stenosis.
• Femoral arteries: Located in the groin, these arteries supply blood to the legs. A femoral bruit could signify peripheral artery disease (PAD).

How Are Bruits Detected?

Bruits are typically detected during a physical examination using a stethoscope. A healthcare professional listens to various arteries while the patient is relaxed and possibly also during activity to better assess blood flow. The location and character of the bruit provide important clues about its underlying cause.

What Does a Bruit Sound Like?

The sound of a bruit can vary depending on its cause and location. It's often described as a:

• Whooshing sound: This is the most common description.
• Blowing sound: Similar to the sound of the wind.
• Humming sound: Less common but still possible.

The intensity of the sound can also vary. A louder bruit usually suggests a more significant degree of stenosis or other vascular abnormality.

When to See a Doctor

If you hear a bruit, or a doctor detects one during an examination, it's essential to seek further evaluation. Bruits aren't always a sign of serious disease, especially if they are faint and only heard during exercise. However, a persistent or loud bruit warrants investigation to rule out underlying vascular problems. Further diagnostic testing might include:

• Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of blood vessels.
• CT scan or MRI: These imaging techniques can provide more detailed images of blood vessels.
• Angiography: A more invasive procedure that involves injecting dye into the blood vessels to visualize them clearly.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. If you have concerns about a bruit or any other vascular symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and management of vascular problems are crucial for preventing serious complications.