the Severity of Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms

How to determine the severity of mitral valve prolapse?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, I used to experience a sharp pain in my chest as if a needle was piercing it, and I would suddenly feel my heart racing, mostly occurring before sleep.
Later, at the beginning of this year, I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse.
During the echocardiogram, the doctor mentioned that my valve leaflets were slightly thickened and that the prolapse appeared to be quite severe, but I did not have any significant discomfort.
Ultimately, the doctor prescribed antidepressants for me to take when I felt anxious.
However, is it safe to take antidepressants? Additionally, during this summer, I had a persistent cough at night, so I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
After taking the prescribed medication, I actually felt severe pain in my heart, and it was quite intense.
The practitioner then prescribed another medication, and my symptoms improved significantly.
However, recently, whenever the weather gets a bit colder, I feel discomfort in my heart.
Should I be concerned about the severity of my condition? I would appreciate your guidance, thank you!

Qi Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/15

Dr. Chen Guifeng reply Cardiology

Most cases of mitral valve prolapse are associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Physicians may sometimes prescribe antidepressants, but medication is not always necessary.
Most patients can manage their symptoms through emotional regulation, stress relief, or distraction techniques.

Reply Date: 2003/12/15

More Info

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can lead to mitral regurgitation (MR), where blood leaks backward into the left atrium. Understanding the severity of MVP symptoms is crucial, especially when considering factors such as pregnancy, sleep, and overall health.

Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse
1. Symptoms and Severity: MVP can present with a variety of symptoms, including palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath. In some cases, individuals may experience anxiety or panic attacks, which can exacerbate the perception of heart symptoms. Your experience of sharp chest pain and rapid heartbeats, particularly at night, is not uncommon among those with MVP. However, the severity of MVP does not always correlate with the severity of symptoms. Many individuals with significant valve abnormalities report minimal symptoms, while others with mild prolapse may experience pronounced discomfort.

2. Heart Function and Monitoring: The echocardiogram findings you mentioned indicate that your mitral valve is thickened and prolapsed, which can suggest a higher likelihood of regurgitation. However, if your left ventricular function is normal and you are asymptomatic or have only mild symptoms, your condition may not require aggressive treatment. Regular follow-ups with your cardiologist are essential to monitor any changes in your condition.

3. Impact of Pregnancy: If you are considering pregnancy, it is generally safe for individuals with MVP, especially if there are no significant symptoms or complications. However, pregnancy can increase blood volume and cardiac workload, which may exacerbate symptoms in some women. It is advisable to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider to ensure appropriate monitoring and management during pregnancy.

4. Sleep Position and Comfort: Your difficulty sleeping flat may be related to increased pressure on the heart or lungs, especially if you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Elevating your head while sleeping can help alleviate these symptoms. If you find that your symptoms worsen or you cannot find a comfortable sleeping position, it is important to inform your healthcare provider.

5. Medication Concerns: Regarding the antidepressants prescribed, these medications can be helpful for managing anxiety and panic symptoms, which may be contributing to your perception of heart symptoms. While some individuals may have concerns about side effects, many find that the benefits outweigh the risks. It is essential to communicate any adverse effects or concerns with your prescribing physician, who can adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

6. Cold Weather Sensitivity: Your increased discomfort in colder weather could be related to changes in blood flow or anxiety. Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, potentially leading to increased heart workload. If you notice a pattern of discomfort with temperature changes, it may be worth discussing with your doctor.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if you experience:
- Worsening chest pain or discomfort
- Significant changes in your heart rate or rhythm
- Persistent shortness of breath
- Symptoms that interfere with your daily activities or quality of life

Conclusion
In summary, while your echocardiogram indicates some structural changes in your mitral valve, the absence of severe symptoms suggests that your condition may be manageable with regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, especially regarding any new or worsening symptoms. Regular follow-ups and a tailored approach to your treatment plan will help ensure that you maintain a good quality of life while managing your MVP.

Similar Q&A

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Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
This is primarily a symptom caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction. If the symptoms are significantly bothersome, medication treatment can be used. Generally, there is no life-threatening danger, so there is no need to be anxious. Changhua Hospital cares about you.