Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) occurs when the two leaflets of the heart’s mitral valve fail to form a tight seal. The mitral valve controls the blood flow between the upper and lower chambers of a heart’s left side. It also helps the blood move in the right direction. A healthy mitral valve keeps a tight seal by opening and closing it quickly whenever required. But sometimes, factors such as genetics or anatomical differences cause the mitral valve to loosen, which surgeons call ‘prolapse.’ When a prolapse occurs, the mitral valve allows the blood to return to the lungs.
This article will delve into what a mitral valve prolapse is, its signs and symptoms, and effective treatment options. To draft this post, we took insights from Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading Heart Doctor in Delhi who practices at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. So, let’s start by knowing what a mitral valve prolapse is.
What is a Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Mitral valve prolapse is an issue in the heart. The heart consists of four chambers. The mitral valve regulates blood flow between two of the chambers. These include the left atrium and the left ventricle. Usually, when the heart relaxes between beats, the two flaps of the mitral valve open, allowing blood to flow from the atrium to the ventricle. Typically, there is only one direction for the flaps to open and the blood to flow. If you are experiencing mitral valve prolapse, the mitral valve flaps are “floppy” and do not close properly. It sometimes allows blood to flow back into the atrium from the ventricle. There can be symptoms when this happens.
What are the Symptoms of Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Mitral valve prolapse may not cause any symptoms. Depending on the extent of prolapse, the symptoms could vary. The common of mitral valve prolapse include:
- Fast or Irregular Heartbeat: This could be the result of irregular heartbeats
- Chest Pain: Chest pain linked to mitral valve prolapse differs from the chest pain associated with coronary artery disease.
- Anxiety
- Exercise intolerance
- Dizziness
Depending on the severity of mitral regurgitation or leak, the left atrium or left ventricle enlarges, leading to heart failure symptoms. These symptoms include weakness, tiredness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact a heart surgeon immediately, as it could be a sign of mitral valve prolapse. To do this, you can consult Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading heart specialist who offers the best Mitral valve repair in India. Let’s discuss the causes of mitral valve prolapse.
What Causes Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Heart doctors are often not aware of the exact cause of mitral valve prolapse. Sometimes, people are usually born with it, or it could also run in families. You could have a high risk of having mitral valve prolapse if you have certain conditions, such as:
- Grave’s disease
- Connective tissue disorders
- Skeletal problems like scoliosis
- Muscular dystrophy
- History of rheumatic fever
- Aging
How is Mitral Valve Prolapse Treated?
Mitral valve prolapse treatment depends on the disease’s severity, the presence of any symptoms, and if the illness is worsening. If the symptoms are mild, the heart doctor may monitor the condition with regular follow-up appointments. Mitral valve prolapse usually does not require treatment as it is a rare, severe condition and does not damage the heart. If the heart rhythm changes, you may require medicines that help control fast heart rhythms or irregular heartbeats. In most situations, you must limit caffeine and nicotine to control symptoms.
If you have atrial fibrillation or severe left atrial enlargement, you may require treatment with an anticoagulant (blood thinner) to keep clots from forming. The medicine can be in the form of aspirin, warfarin therapy, or other blood thinners. If you have dizziness or fainting symptoms, you must stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. If severe mitral regurgitation is because of a floppy mitral leaflet or tear (rupture) of the cords, you may need surgery to repair or replace the valve.
Can Mitral Valve Prolapse Be Prevented?
You can lower the risk of heart valve disease by following these tips:
- Living a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet and exercising
- Not smoking
- Practicing good skin and dental hygiene to prevent endocarditis, which can also damage heart valves
How Long Can You Survive With Mitral Valve Prolapse?
The majority of people with mitral valve prolapse do not have any adverse consequences, and the illness does not reduce life expectancy. It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle to manage the condition.
What are the Lifestyle Changes that Can Prevent the Condition From Worsening?
If you may have mitral valve prolapse, you can practice the following steps to prevent the condition from worsening:
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a nutritious diet
- Exercise well
- Practice proper dental hygiene to reduce the risk of endocarditis
Final Takeaway
Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the heart’s mitral valve flaps do not close properly. The condition is usually considered harmless. In a few cases, failure of the valves to close tightly can lead to mitral regurgitation. If the valve leak is severe, surgery to repair or replace the damaged valves is necessary. Also, if you have a mitral valve prolapse, living a healthy lifestyle and being regularly monitored is vital. However, if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath that might differ from what you experienced in the past, seek medical attention immediately.
If you are looking for a leading heart doctor in Delhi, you can consult Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. He is a famous heart doctor who specializes in treating mitral valve prolapse. He is also renowned for performing successful heart procedures at the hospital, such as HOCM, heart transplants, mitral valve repair, and many more.
To consult the renowned heart surgeon, Dr. Sujay Shad, visit Sir Ganga Ram Hospital today.
Experienced Content Writer with a demonstrated history of working in the Health, Education, Technology, and Travel industry.