Heart sounds (HS)

Heart sounds are the discrete auditory vibrations produced by the mechanical activities of the heart, primarily resulting from the closure of heart valves and the associated turbulence of blood flow during the cardiac cycle [1][2]. The two primary sounds, S1 (lub) and S2 (dub), correspond to the closure of the atrioventricular and semilunar valves, respectively, marking the beginning of systole and diastole [1]. Abnormal sounds, such as S3 and S4 gallops or various murmurs, often indicate underlying pathologies like heart failure, valvular dysfunction, or structural defects [2][3]. While heart sounds are not molecular targets (such as receptors or enzymes) that drugs can bind to, they are critical clinical indicators used to monitor cardiac health and the hemodynamic response to therapy [3]. Pharmacological agents like diuretics, beta-blockers, or inotropes may alter these sounds by improving cardiac function or reducing fluid overload, but the sound itself remains a physiological sign rather than a therapeutic target [1][3].

Other names

Cardiac soundsAuscultatory findingsS1S2S3S4Heart murmursGallop rhythms

Not applicable; heart sounds are acoustic results of mechanical activity rather than molecular targets for drug binding.