Mitral Valve Prolapse: Palpitations and Related Symptoms

Mitral valve prolapse, headache, palpitations?

Hello, doctor.
I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse accompanied by mild to moderate regurgitation during middle school, and I would like to ask you a few questions.

1.
I can constantly feel my heartbeat (palpitations) very clearly, even when I exert my toes or clench my fists, I can feel the pulse.
However, I do not experience any other discomfort.
Given my heart condition, is this considered normal?
2.
Occasionally, I experience an abnormal heartbeat sensation a few times a month, where my heart beats slightly faster for a few beats, then pauses, followed by a strong beat that feels somewhat uncomfortable.
This sensation lasts for several days.
What could this be?
3.
This is a more troubling issue for me: I experience a sense of weakness in my left arm and leg (though it does not affect my daily life or exercise), and I feel the urge to stretch, but it doesn’t seem to relieve the sensation.
Recently, I have also felt something similar in the left side of my head, which is even more uncomfortable.
I wonder if this could be related to my valve issue causing insufficient blood flow.
Is this situation connected to my heart condition? If not, which specialty should I consult for further examination? Thank you, doctor, for your hard work!

Yu Hao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/12

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, Yu-Hao.
Mitral valve prolapse with mild to moderate regurgitation is not that alarming.
Your main symptoms are likely due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation and paroxysmal arrhythmias, rather than insufficient blood flow caused by the valve issue.
This condition is not related to my heart.
If you still feel unwell, consider consulting a cardiologist or a psychosomatic specialist.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/12/12

More Info

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium from the left ventricle of the heart, does not close properly. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including palpitations, which you are experiencing. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Feeling Your Heartbeat: It is not uncommon for individuals with MVP to be more aware of their heartbeat, especially if there is associated mitral regurgitation (the backward flow of blood due to improper closure of the valve). The sensation of heartbeats can be heightened due to anxiety, stress, or even physical activity. If you are feeling your heartbeat consistently but without any other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, it may be considered normal for your condition. However, it is always best to discuss these sensations with your healthcare provider to ensure that they are not indicative of a more serious issue.

2. Irregular Heartbeats: The episodes of your heart racing followed by a pause and a strong beat could be indicative of premature contractions, which are common in people with MVP. These can be benign, especially if they are infrequent and not associated with significant symptoms. However, if these episodes are persistent or worsening, it is essential to have them evaluated. Your doctor may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over a period of time.

3. Weakness in Left Extremities: The sensation of weakness in your left hand and foot, along with the discomfort in your head, is concerning. While MVP can lead to palpitations and some degree of fatigue, it is less likely to cause localized weakness or discomfort in the extremities or head. These symptoms could be unrelated to your mitral valve condition and may warrant further investigation. It is advisable to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation, especially since you are experiencing symptoms in your head. They may perform imaging studies or other tests to rule out neurological issues.

In summary, while MVP can cause palpitations and awareness of heartbeat, the additional symptoms you are experiencing—especially the irregular heartbeats and weakness—should be evaluated further. It is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your cardiologist to monitor your mitral valve condition and any associated symptoms. If you have concerns about neurological symptoms, a referral to a neurologist would be appropriate.

In terms of lifestyle management, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can help alleviate some symptoms associated with MVP. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine may also reduce palpitations. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your lifestyle or treatment plan.

If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!

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