Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common, usually benign heart disorder. The mitral valve controls blood flow between the upper (atrium) and lower (ventricle) chambers on the left side of the heart. Normally, blood should only flow in one direction, from the upper chamber into the lower chamber. In MVP, the valve flaps don’t work properly; part of the valve balloons into the atrium, allowing blood to leak the wrong direction, back into the atrium.
Causes
In most cases, the cause of MVP is unknown. In some cases, it appears to be an inherited genetic condition. Rarely, MVP may be caused by:
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Rheumatic fever
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Coronary heart disease
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Cardiomyopathy
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Atrial septal defects
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition.
Symptoms
People with mitral valve prolapse often have no symptoms at all. If symptoms do occur, however, they may include one or more of the following:
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Irregular heart beat
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Fatigue
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Chest pain
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Panic attacks or anxiety
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Rapid heart beat (palpitations)
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Sensation of missed heart beats
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Shortness of breath
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Dizziness
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Intestinal problems (such as irritable bowel syndrome)
Diagnosis
Mitral valve prolapse can be heard through a stethoscope. A small blood leakage will sound like a murmur. When the mitral valve balloons backward, it may produce a clicking sound. Both murmurs and clicks are telltale signs of MVP. An echocardiogram can confirm the diagnosis. You may also be asked to wear a Holter monitor for a day or two, to continuously record the electrical activity of your heart (EKG).
Treatment
In most cases, no treatment is necessary. Speak with your doctor about whether you should take antibiotics prior to dental work or surgery. Antibiotics may help to prevent endocarditis, an infection of the membrane that covers the inside of the heart.
If symptoms include chest pain, anxiety, or panic attacks, a beta-blocker medication can be prescribed. Ask your doctor whether you may continue to participate in your usual athletic activities.
In very rare cases, the blood leakage may become severe. In these few cases, the mitral valve may need to be surgically repaired or replaced.
Prevention
There are no guidelines for preventing MVP of unknown or genetic origin.
You may be able to prevent symptoms, however, through certain lifestyle changes:
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Limit your intake of caffeine
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Avoid medications (such as decongestants) that speed up your heart rate
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Exercise regularly, following your healthcare provider’s recommendations for intensity
RESOURCES:
American Heart Association
http://www.americanheart.org
Heart Information Network
http://www.heartinfo.org
References:
American Heart Association
National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute
