What is a bruit?

• A bruit is an abnormal whooshing or swishing sound heard over blood vessels
• It is detected using a stethoscope during a physical examination
• It usually indicates turbulent blood flow, often due to narrowing or blockage in an artery

What causes a bruit?

• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
• Arteriovenous fistula (abnormal connection between an artery and a vein)
• Aneurysm (bulge in an artery wall)
• High blood flow through a normal vessel
• Trauma to blood vessels
• Tumors that affect nearby blood vessels

Where can bruits be heard?

• Neck – carotid arteries (common site)
• Abdomen – abdominal aorta
• Groin – femoral arteries
• Back – renal arteries
• Around heart or head – less commonly

What does a bruit indicate?

• May suggest a partially blocked or narrowed artery
• Can signal increased risk of stroke (especially carotid bruit)
• Could point to underlying cardiovascular disease
• Sometimes found in healthy individuals, especially in high-output states like fever or pregnancy

How is a bruit diagnosed?

• Physical exam using a stethoscope
• Doppler ultrasound – to assess blood flow
• CT angiography or MR angiography – to visualize blood vessels
• Carotid duplex scan – if bruit is in the neck
• Blood tests – to check for cholesterol or clotting issues

What is the treatment for a bruit?

• Depends on the underlying cause
• Lifestyle changes – diet, exercise, quitting smoking
• Medications – blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, antihypertensives
• Surgical options:
– Angioplasty or stenting
– Endarterectomy (removal of plaque)
– Repair of aneurysm or fistula if present
• Regular monitoring – if no immediate treatment needed

When should you see a doctor?

• If a bruit is discovered during an exam
• If you experience symptoms like dizziness, vision changes, weakness, or chest pain
• If you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• If you notice pulsating masses or new sounds in your neck or abdomen