Overview
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a type of heart valve disease that affects the valve between the left heart chambers. The flaps (leaflets) of the mitral valve are floppy, and they bulge backward (prolapse) into the heart's left upper chamber as the heart squeezes (contracts). This condition is also known as Barlow syndrome, Billowing mitral valve syndrome, Click-murmur syndrome, Floppy valve syndrome, Mitral prolapse, Myxomatous mitral valve disease, and sometimes Ebstein anomaly, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Graves' disease, Marfan syndrome, Muscular dystrophy, or Scoliosis. MVP can cause blood to leak backward across the valve, a condition called mitral valve regurgitation. In most cases, MVP isn't life-threatening and doesn't require treatment or lifestyle changes. However, some people may need medications or surgery, especially if the prolapse causes severe regurgitation.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of mitral valve prolapse may include a racing or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), dizziness or lightheadedness, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially during exercise or when lying flat, and fatigue. Some individuals with mitral valve prolapse may not have noticeable symptoms.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing mitral valve prolapse include:
Development
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) develops when one or both flaps (leaflets) of the mitral valve in the heart become floppy, bulging backward (prolapse) into the heart's left upper chamber as the heart squeezes (contracts). This can cause blood to leak backward across the valve, a condition called mitral valve regurgitation. MVP can occur in anyone at any age and may be inherited or linked to other conditions like Ebstein anomaly, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Graves' disease, Marfan syndrome, muscular dystrophy, or scoliosis. The bulging leaflets may also cause symptoms such as a racing or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect mitral valve prolapse, it is recommended to see a healthcare provider. Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so a proper diagnosis is necessary. If you are experiencing sudden or unusual chest pain, or if you think you are having a heart attack, seek emergency medical care immediately. If you have been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and your symptoms worsen, consult your healthcare provider. If you have symptoms of mitral valve prolapse, such as chest pain, a fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath during activity, or swelling in your feet or legs, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. They may refer you to a cardiologist, a doctor specializing in heart diseases, for further evaluation and treatment. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding follow-up exams and any necessary medication or surgical interventions.
Diagnosis
To diagnose mitral valve prolapse, a healthcare provider typically performs a physical exam and listens to the heart with a stethoscope. If a clicking sound is heard, diagnostic tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include echocardiogram, exercise or stress tests, or cardiac catheterization.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of mitral valve prolapse may include mitral valve regurgitation, heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), and an increased risk of blood clots and stroke in cases of severe regurgitation. In severe cases, it can also lead to an enlarged left upper heart chamber, weakened heart muscle, and pulmonary hypertension.
Treatment
Treatment for mitral valve prolapse depends on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. For many people, no treatment or lifestyle changes are necessary. However, some may require medications or surgery, especially if the prolapse causes severe mitral valve regurgitation. Medications can be used to manage symptoms, such as:
- Diuretics: To help reduce fluid buildup in the body and alleviate symptoms of heart failure.
- Blood thinners: In some cases, to reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the heart.
- Medications for heart rhythm problems: To manage arrhythmias related to mitral valve prolapse. If medications are not effective in managing symptoms or complications, surgery may be necessary. The two primary surgical options include:
- Mitral valve repair: A surgeon may repair the valve to help it function correctly. This is the preferred treatment when possible, as it preserves the function of the native valve.
- Mitral valve replacement: If the mitral valve cannot be repaired, the surgeon may replace it with an artificial valve. In milder cases or when symptoms do not worsen, regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is often sufficient. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment plan, as individual cases may vary.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for mitral valve prolapse, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and ask about them when you schedule the appointment.
- Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to mitral valve prolapse, and when they began.
- Gather information about your personal and family medical history, including any heart disease, heart defects, genetic disorders, strokes, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take, including doses.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend along to help you remember the information provided during the appointment.
- Be prepared to discuss your diet and exercise habits, and any challenges you may face in starting or maintaining a healthy routine.
- Write down a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as the cause of your symptoms, recommended tests, and treatment options. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have all the necessary information and are well-prepared for your appointment.