Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse and Low Blood Pressure in Cold Work Environments

History of mitral valve insufficiency/prolapse and hypotension?

As a child, there was a history of mitral valve regurgitation/prolapse and hypotension.
The work environment requires moving between -20°C to 7°C for about 10 hours, with approximately two five-minute breaks throughout the day and no fixed meal times.
Currently, I have been working for about a month.
After work, I often feel that my core body temperature is very cold.
Yesterday, towards the end of my shift, I started feeling dizzy, had blurred vision, and experienced dry eyes, and I still felt unwell this morning.
Around noon today, I began to feel dizzy again, with dry and gritty eyes, difficulty breathing, a sensation of rapid heartbeat, and pulsating temples.
The pulse at my wrist felt stronger than usual, and I have been experiencing a runny nose.
After about eight hours of work, I started to feel somewhat disoriented and needed to lie down.

I usually take the following medications:
1.
Alprazolam 0.5 mg twice a day
2.
Agomelatine 25 mg once at bedtime
3.
Buspirone 10 mg, 5 mg twice a day
4.
Lorazepam 0.5 mg three times a day
5.
Quetiapine 25 mg once at bedtime
6.
Eurodin 2 mg, taking 1 mg at bedtime as prescribed.
Should I seek medical attention for this condition? How urgently should I seek care? (As there are limited opportunities to see a doctor outside of regular hours.) Additionally, what precautions should I take while working? Thank you.

C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/02

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

Your symptoms are not related to mitral valve prolapse.
It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, keep warm, and engage in regular exercise.

Reply Date: 2020/12/02

More Info

Managing health conditions such as mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and low blood pressure in cold work environments can be quite challenging, especially when working in extreme temperatures like -20°C to 7°C. Your symptoms of dizziness, dry eyes, difficulty breathing, and increased heart rate are concerning and warrant immediate attention.

Mitral valve prolapse is a condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle doesn't close properly, which can lead to various symptoms, including palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can exacerbate these symptoms, particularly in cold environments where blood vessels constrict, potentially leading to reduced blood flow to vital organs.

Immediate Concerns
Given your recent experiences of dizziness, confusion, and difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. These symptoms may indicate that your body is struggling to maintain adequate blood flow and oxygenation, especially in a cold environment. If you feel your symptoms are worsening or if you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting, you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Recommendations for Work Environment
1. Stay Warm: Dress in layers to maintain body heat. Insulated clothing, gloves, and hats can help prevent body heat loss. Consider using hand warmers or heated vests if available.

2. Hydration: Cold environments can lead to dehydration, which can further lower blood pressure. Ensure you are drinking enough fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

3. Regular Breaks: Take advantage of your breaks to warm up and rest. If possible, find a sheltered area where you can take longer breaks to recover from the cold.

4. Nutrition: Try to eat small, nutritious snacks during your breaks to maintain energy levels. Foods high in carbohydrates and proteins can help sustain your energy.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice any changes or worsening of your condition, it’s essential to report these to your supervisor and seek medical advice.

6. Medication Management: Given your current medications, it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider how these might interact with your work environment. Some medications can cause drowsiness or dizziness, which may be exacerbated by cold exposure.

Long-Term Management
1. Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your MVP and blood pressure. They may adjust your medications or recommend lifestyle changes to better manage your symptoms.

2. Cardiologist Consultation: If you haven’t already, consider consulting a cardiologist who can provide specialized care for your mitral valve prolapse and low blood pressure.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques into your routine to improve overall cardiovascular health.

4. Emergency Plan: Have a plan in place for what to do if you experience severe symptoms while at work. This may include having a colleague aware of your condition and knowing when to call for help.

Conclusion
Your symptoms in the cold work environment are concerning, especially with your history of mitral valve prolapse and low blood pressure. It is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to ensure your safety and well-being. Additionally, implementing strategies to manage your health in such environments will be crucial for your ongoing work and overall health.

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