Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Mitral valve prolapse

I experience sharp pain in my chest, located slightly to the upper left between my breasts.
The frequency of the pain varies; sometimes it occurs when I change positions or move my body.
The episodes can last for two to three days and have persisted for six years without improvement.
I consulted a doctor five years ago, but they said there was nothing wrong.
Why does this pain continue? Is there really no issue? How can I improve this? Thank you!
Doctor's Response: Hello Emma, if your chest X-ray and electrocardiogram (ECG) are normal, the most likely causes are neuralgia or mitral valve prolapse.
Please see a cardiologist for evaluation and treatment (echocardiogram).
Doctor: Hello, my symptoms are similar to those of Emma, so I went to a cardiologist for an examination.
After measuring my blood pressure and listening to my heartbeat with a stethoscope, the doctor concluded that this is neuralgia, not mitral valve prolapse.
There are no heart issues.
I asked the doctor if it could be mitral valve prolapse, and he said that it can be detected with a stethoscope, so he determined it is not.
Should I no longer worry about heart problems, or should I go to a larger hospital for further tests like an echocardiogram?

lex, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/29

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine

Mild mitral valve prolapse may not be discernible with a standard stethoscope.
It is recommended to follow up at a cardiology clinic and arrange for an echocardiogram for a more accurate assessment.

Reply Date: 2000/11/29

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 chest pain, palpitations, and in some cases, anxiety. Understanding MVP involves recognizing its symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.

Symptoms of Mitral Valve Prolapse
Patients with MVP may experience a range of symptoms, although many individuals remain asymptomatic. Common symptoms include:
1. Chest Pain: This can be sharp or dull and may occur in the left side of the chest. It is often described as a feeling of pressure or tightness.

2. Palpitations: Patients may feel a rapid or irregular heartbeat, which can be alarming.

3. Fatigue: Some individuals report feeling unusually tired, especially after physical activity.

4. Shortness of Breath: This may occur during exertion or when lying flat.

5. Anxiety: Some patients experience heightened anxiety, which may be related to the awareness of their heart condition.

In your case, the chest pain you describe, particularly its variability with posture and movement, could indeed be related to MVP or other musculoskeletal issues. However, it is essential to differentiate between cardiac and non-cardiac causes of chest pain.

Diagnosis of Mitral Valve Prolapse
The diagnosis of MVP typically involves several steps:
1. Medical History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will take a detailed history of your symptoms and perform a physical examination, including auscultation of the heart.

2. Echocardiogram: This is the most definitive test for diagnosing MVP. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart's structure and function, allowing the physician to visualize the mitral valve and assess its movement.

3. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can help identify any arrhythmias associated with MVP.

4. Chest X-ray: While not specific for MVP, a chest X-ray can help rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Mitral Valve Prolapse
Treatment for MVP depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms:
1. Observation: If MVP is mild and asymptomatic, no treatment may be necessary. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended.

2. Medications: For patients experiencing significant symptoms, medications such as beta-blockers may be prescribed to help manage palpitations and anxiety.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Patients are often advised to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques.

4. Surgery: In rare cases where MVP leads to severe mitral regurgitation or other complications, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace the mitral valve.

Conclusion
Given your symptoms and the previous evaluations, it is understandable to seek further clarification. If your doctor has ruled out significant cardiac issues through physical examination and basic tests, and if your symptoms persist, it may be worthwhile to pursue an echocardiogram for a more comprehensive assessment of the mitral valve. This will help confirm or rule out MVP and provide peace of mind regarding your heart health.

If you continue to experience symptoms or if they worsen, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation, possibly at a larger medical facility where more advanced diagnostic tools are available. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing your concerns with a healthcare professional is the best course of action.

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