Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Key Facts
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP), also known as Barlow's syndrome or floppy valve syndrome, is a common heart condition that affects the mitral valve, one of the four valves in the heart. This valve controls the flow of blood between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle.
The cause of MVP can be multifactorial. It may stem from an abnormality in the valve itself, such as unusually long leaflets, a stretched opening, or loose leaflets. Some people may develop MVP as their heart "ages," with the valve leaflets stretching and degenerating. Research suggests that genetics may play a role in the root cause of MVP, as it is often present from birth and tends to run in families.
Several other heart conditions can cause MVP or contribute to mitral valve dysfunction. These include age-related changes, myocardial infarction (heart attack), connective tissue disorders, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart defects, infective endocarditis, and coronary artery disease.
Many people with MVP will never experience symptoms, but some may develop symptoms such as palpitations, racing heart, tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, cough, anxiety, chest pain, and discomfort not due to a heart attack or another heart condition. In some cases, blood may move from the left ventricle into the left atrium as the heart contracts, a condition known as mitral regurgitation.
Diagnosis of MVP is often made during a stethoscope exam in a routine doctor's visit. Doctors may suspect a heart murmur with a clicking sound. Tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of MVP may include an echocardiogram, exercise stress echocardiogram, and electrocardiogram (EKG).
Complications of MVP are rare, but can include heart failure, arrhythmias, and infection of the inner tissues of the heart. In most cases, MVP is not serious or life-threatening, but it may worsen over time and cause symptoms.
Treatment for MVP is often focused on mindful management, with regular doctor visits and echocardiograms. Medications may be prescribed for people experiencing symptoms or significant regurgitation, including beta-blockers, blood thinners, vasodilators, diuretics, and medications to regulate the heartbeat. Surgery options for MVP include mitral valve repair, valve replacement, and the MitraClip procedure. Surgery may be recommended for severe regurgitation, progressive regurgitation, heart muscle deterioration, or significant symptoms that do not respond to medications.
Anyone experiencing sharp chest pain should speak to a doctor about it. It's important to remember that while MVP can be a concern, many people live long and healthy lives with the condition. Regular check-ups and following a heart-healthy lifestyle can help manage the condition effectively.
People with connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome, may also have MVP. If you have a family history of MVP or connective tissue disorders, it's essential to discuss this with your doctor.
In summary, MVP can be associated or caused by degenerative, ischemic, infectious, inflammatory, congenital, or connective tissue conditions affecting the mitral valve or its supporting structures. While MVP can potentially lead to serious heart problems, with proper management and regular check-ups, many people can live healthy lives with the condition.
- Genetics may contribute to the root cause of Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), as it is often present from birth and tends to run in families.
- In some cases, people may develop MVP as their heart "ages," with the valve leaflets stretching and degenerating.
- Connective tissue disorders, like Marfan syndrome, can also cause or associate with MVP.
- Complications of MVP are rare but can include heart failure, arrhythmias, and infection of the inner tissues of the heart.
- Surgery options for MVP include mitral valve repair, valve replacement, and the MitraClip procedure.
- A heart-healthy lifestyle, regular check-ups, and mindful management, with medications if necessary, can help people living with MVP live long and healthy lives.
