Overview
Mitral valve regurgitation is a type of heart valve disease in which the valve between the left heart chambers doesn't close completely, allowing blood to leak backward across the valve. This condition is also referred to as mitral regurgitation (MR), mitral insufficiency, or mitral incompetence. It is the most common type of heart valve disease. In severe cases, if left untreated, it can cause the heart to work harder, leading to heart failure. Symptoms may include fatigue and shortness of breath. Treatment options may include regular monitoring, medications, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation may include fatigue, a sound of blood flow across the valve (heart murmur), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), shortness of breath (dyspnea), sensation of a rapid, pounding or fluttering heartbeat (palpitations), and swollen feet or ankles (edema). However, some people with mitral valve regurgitation might not have symptoms for many years. As the condition worsens, the heart must work harder to pump blood to the body, leading to increased strain on the heart muscle. If left untreated, severe mitral valve regurgitation can cause heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) or heart failure.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing mitral valve regurgitation include:
- Certain infections that affect the heart
- Heart attack
- Heart problems present at birth (congenital heart defect)
- History of other heart valve diseases, including mitral valve prolapse and mitral valve stenosis
- Older age
- Radiation to the chest These factors can increase the risk of developing mitral valve regurgitation. However, it is important to note that even without risk factors, mitral valve regurgitation can still occur.
Development
Mitral valve regurgitation (MR) develops when the valve between the left heart chambers doesn't close completely, allowing blood to leak backward across the valve. It is the most common type of heart valve disease (valvular heart disease). If the leakage is severe, not enough blood will move through the heart or to the rest of the body, leading to fatigue and shortness of breath. Mitral valve regurgitation can be caused by various factors, such as:
- Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with a mitral valve problem that develops into MR as they grow older.
- Heart muscle disease: Conditions like cardiomyopathy can cause the heart muscle to become weak, leading to MR.
- Heart valve infections: Infections such as endocarditis can damage the heart valves, including the mitral valve, leading to MR.
- Heart valve damage from rheumatic fever: Rheumatic fever, which can follow a streptococcal infection, can cause the mitral valve to become damaged and malfunction, leading to MR.
- Aging: The mitral valve can deteriorate over time due to normal wear and tear, leading to MR.
- Trauma: A sudden injury to the heart valve can cause MR. Treatment options for MR can include regular monitoring, medications, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you develop symptoms that suggest mitral valve regurgitation or another problem with your heart, such as fatigue, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), shortness of breath (dyspnea), a sensation of a rapid, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat (palpitations), or swollen feet or ankles (edema). If you have a heart murmur, your healthcare provider may refer you to a cardiologist for further evaluation. It's essential to seek medical attention promptly to address any potential heart issues and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Diagnosis
To diagnose mitral valve regurgitation, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical exam, listen to your heart with a stethoscope, and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. Common diagnostic tests include echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, cardiac MRI, and exercise or stress tests. Cardiac catheterization may also be performed in certain cases. The stage of the disease is determined based on the test results, which helps guide the most appropriate treatment.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of mitral valve regurgitation include irregular and often rapid heart rate (atrial fibrillation), high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension), heart failure, endocarditis, and complications related to radiation therapy, infections, or other heart valve diseases. These complications depend on the severity of the disease and can worsen if left untreated.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations for mitral valve regurgitation.
Treatment
The treatments for mitral valve regurgitation may include regular monitoring, medications, or surgery. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not require any treatment, but for severe cases, a catheter procedure or heart surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the mitral valve. Without proper treatment, severe mitral valve regurgitation can lead to heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) or heart failure.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for mitral valve regurgitation, you should:
- Write down any signs and symptoms you are experiencing, including those that may seem unrelated to the condition.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend along for support.
- Write down questions to ask your healthcare provider.
- Be prepared to discuss your diet and exercise habits.
- Get support from your family and friends.
- Stay physically active, but consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate exercise recommendations. Remember to arrive on time for your appointment, and don't hesitate to ask questions or clarify any points during the consultation. Good luck with your appointment!