Experiencing Heart Pain with Mitral Valve Prolapse: When to Seek Help?

Recently, I have been experiencing frequent sharp pains in my heart, and I have a history of mitral valve prolapse?

I haven't returned for a follow-up appointment in a year and a half.
Recently, I've been feeling my heart rate fluctuating, with the slowest being 48 beats per minute, along with chest tightness and sharp pain.
I smoke no more than five cigarettes a day and have a habit of staying up late.
Doctor, should I wait to see if my condition worsens before going back to the hospital, or should I schedule an appointment for an ultrasound soon?

Min min, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/13

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, first change your routine and quit smoking.
Avoid staying up late, especially since you have mitral valve prolapse and are staying up late.
Your autonomic nervous system will naturally be unstable, which can lead to discomfort.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/07/13

More Info

Experiencing heart pain, especially in the context of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Mitral valve prolapse is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can lead to various symptoms, including palpitations, chest pain, and even anxiety. Given your symptoms of irregular heartbeats, chest tightness, and pain, it is essential to take these signs seriously.

Firstly, the irregular heartbeats you mentioned, particularly a heart rate dropping as low as 48 beats per minute, could indicate bradycardia, which may require further evaluation. While some individuals may have a naturally lower resting heart rate, especially athletes, a heart rate that dips below 60 beats per minute in a non-athlete can be a cause for concern, particularly if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or chest pain.

The chest pain and discomfort you are experiencing could be related to your MVP. While many individuals with MVP do not experience significant symptoms, others may have episodes of chest pain that can be sharp or feel like pressure. This pain can sometimes be exacerbated by anxiety or stress, which is not uncommon in individuals dealing with heart-related concerns. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking and lack of sleep can contribute to cardiovascular symptoms and should be addressed.

In your case, it is advisable not to wait and see if your symptoms worsen before seeking medical attention. Given that you have not had a follow-up appointment in over a year, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with your cardiologist as soon as possible. During this visit, a thorough evaluation, including an echocardiogram, can help assess the current state of your mitral valve and overall heart function. This is particularly important because MVP can sometimes lead to complications such as mitral regurgitation, where blood leaks backward into the left atrium, potentially leading to more severe symptoms and complications.

Furthermore, your smoking habit and irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate heart issues and should be addressed as part of your overall health strategy. Smoking is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and reducing or quitting smoking can have immediate and long-term benefits for your heart health. Additionally, improving your sleep hygiene can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

In summary, do not delay in seeking medical attention. Schedule an appointment with your cardiologist to discuss your symptoms and undergo necessary evaluations. Early intervention can help manage your condition effectively and prevent potential complications. Remember, your heart health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly is the best course of action.

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