Which heart sounds are typically found in a healthy patient?

In a healthy patient, the heart sounds that are typically identified are S1 and S2. S1, also known as the "lub" sound, occurs with the closure of the atrioventricular (AV) valves (the mitral and tricuspid valves) at the beginning of ventricular contraction (systole). This sound signifies that the heart is pumping blood into the arteries and is an important marker of effective heart function.

S2, known as the "dub" sound, is produced by the closure of the semilunar valves (the aortic and pulmonary valves) at the end of ventricular contraction and the beginning of diastole. This sound indicates that the heart has finished contracting and is preparing to fill with blood again, marking a healthy transition in the cardiac cycle.

While S3 and S4 heart sounds can be present in some healthy individuals, particularly athletes or younger patients, they are often associated with specific physiological or pathological conditions, such as heart failure or reduced ventricular compliance. Thus, S1 and S2 are the primary sounds typically expected in a healthy patient and are key indicators of proper heart functionality during a routine examination.