Mitral Valve Prolapse and Autonomic Nervous System Issues

Mitral valve prolapse with autonomic dysfunction?

In July of this year, one morning I woke up suddenly feeling unable to breathe and unable to feel my heartbeat.
I was terrified; my hands and feet began to tingle.
In August, I went to the emergency room due to palpitations and had blood tests done.
The results showed nothing significant.
On August 8th, I underwent an echocardiogram and a 24-hour Holter monitor test.
The results indicated non-rheumatic mitral valve prolapse.
I remember the doctor mentioning there were over 50 instances of abnormal heartbeats on the ECG but did not diagnose any arrhythmia, just said it was okay.
The doctor then prescribed Entresto for me to take after breakfast and dinner.
After taking the medication for a while, I noticed that I still experienced palpitations at night, even when lying down to sleep.
I repeatedly visited the cardiologist, but the doctor only advised me to relax and not to be too anxious.
They prescribed Clonazepam, but I did not take it and continued with Entresto.
Later, I decided to see an autonomic nervous system specialist who told me I had autonomic hyperactivity and prescribed L-Theanine, which worked very well and significantly improved my palpitations.
However, the psychiatrist informed me that Entresto could cause erectile dysfunction.
Is that true? I then started to reduce my medication, and shortly after, I was diagnosed.
After the diagnosis, I noticed my heart rate had noticeably increased.
I want to ask if this is a post-diagnosis side effect.
This morning, I forgot to take my medication, and after lunch, I started feeling unwell with an increased heart rate and difficulty breathing.
After taking one pill and resting, I felt better.
I want to know if taking Entresto really has the side effect of erectile dysfunction, which is quite concerning.
Also, if I want to reduce my Entresto dosage, would it be better to decrease it by half a pill at a time?

Wei Xiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/25

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, have you experienced a side effect? If not, there's no need to worry; not everyone experiences it.
Don't scare yourself unnecessarily.
It's not so important how to eat, but rather how to eat in a way that makes you feel more comfortable.
Taking medication haphazardly for a side effect that may not even occur can disrupt your life, which is not worth it.
It's better to follow a regular medication schedule and stabilize first.
If you really want to reduce the Ental tablet, it's better to decrease it gradually, half a tablet at a time.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/11/25

More Info

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and autonomic nervous system (ANS) issues can significantly impact an individual's health and quality of life. 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 symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and anxiety. The relationship between MVP and autonomic nervous system dysfunction is complex, as both conditions can influence each other.

Your experience of feeling short of breath and having numbness in your hands and feet can be alarming and may be related to both MVP and autonomic dysfunction. The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. When the ANS is dysregulated, it can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety, and even physical sensations like numbness or tingling.

In your case, the heart palpitations and feelings of anxiety could be exacerbated by the MVP, as the heart may struggle to maintain a steady rhythm. The fact that you experienced these symptoms upon waking and during stressful situations suggests that your body's response to stress may be heightened, which is a common feature of autonomic dysfunction. The heart's electrical system can become more sensitive, leading to increased heart rates and palpitations, especially in response to anxiety or stress.

Regarding the medications you mentioned, Entalate (likely a beta-blocker) is often prescribed to help manage symptoms associated with MVP and anxiety. While beta-blockers can be effective in reducing heart rate and alleviating palpitations, they can also have side effects. Concerns about erectile dysfunction are valid, as some individuals may experience this as a side effect of beta-blockers. However, this does not occur in everyone, and the benefits of the medication should be weighed against potential side effects.

If you are considering tapering off Entalate, it is essential to do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Reducing the dosage gradually, such as by taking half the dose, is generally recommended to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure that your body adjusts appropriately. Abruptly stopping beta-blockers can lead to rebound effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can exacerbate your symptoms.

It is also crucial to address the underlying anxiety and stress that may be contributing to your symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation exercises can be beneficial in managing anxiety and improving your overall well-being. Additionally, regular physical activity and a healthy diet can support both cardiovascular health and autonomic function.

In summary, MVP and autonomic nervous system issues can significantly affect your health, leading to symptoms such as palpitations and anxiety. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare providers to manage your medications and explore additional strategies for reducing anxiety and improving your quality of life. If you have concerns about specific side effects or the best approach to tapering off medications, do not hesitate to discuss these with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Autonomic Nervous System Connection

I am a patient with mitral valve prolapse. I have undergone both echocardiography and electrocardiogram (ECG) tests. The doctor informed me that my heart function is normal, and the 24-hour ECG showed some abnormal events, but they were within acceptable limits, so there is no ma...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, your symptoms are commonly associated with autonomic nervous system issues. They can be managed with medication. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Mitral Valve Prolapse?

I would like to ask the doctor whether autonomic nervous system dysfunction can lead to mitral valve prolapse (which was previously normal). After experiencing hyperventilation during two driving episodes, my body became tense, and I developed uncomfortable symptoms such as palpi...

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
1. Mitral valve prolapse is the most common heart valve disorder, affecting 3-6% of the population. Patients with mitral valve prolapse may experience symptoms such as nonspecific, vague chest pain, palpitations, heart racing, arrhythmias, or a feeling of tightness in the chest. ...

Understanding Heart Issues: Mitral Valve Prolapse and Autonomic Dysregulation

Hello, Doctor. Thank you for taking the time to read my message and assist with my questions! I would like to describe my current situation as follows: 1. I experience a rapid heartbeat and dizziness after climbing about three flights of stairs, requiring me to rest before cont...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, your symptoms are primarily related to autonomic nervous system issues combined with anxiety, which has led to some panic problems. You can consider increasing the dosage of your medication; if there is no improvement, you may want to visit a psychosomatic medicine clinic ...

Mitral Valve Prolapse and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Explained

Hello Dr. He, a few years ago I experienced occasional palpitations and subsequently was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse at National Taiwan University Hospital. My condition was well-controlled, and after some time, I stopped taking medication and only needed annual follow-u...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, echocardiography cannot diagnose autonomic nervous system disorders. To confirm the diagnosis, you need to visit a psychosomatic medicine department that has autonomic nervous system testing equipment. However, this examination often requires out-of-pocket expenses. Exerci...