Left Chest Pain: Is It Related to Mitral Valve Prolapse?

Left chest pain?

I was diagnosed with mild mitral valve prolapse 4.5 years ago.
After that, I took medication for about six months, which reduced the frequency of episodes.
However, recently I have been experiencing occasional sharp pain under my left collarbone and near my left ribcage, extending to my arm.
Sometimes, my left hand feels a bit numb, and today I had a few sharp pains that radiated from my left shoulder down my back, occasionally causing discomfort in my lower back as well.
I previously visited a Tzu Chi clinic, but they told me that the pain was not related to my heart.
They prescribed some muscle relaxants, but they did not help.
After a few days without medication, the symptoms disappeared, but today the sharp pain returned.
I am wondering if this could still be related to my mitral valve prolapse or if there might be another issue with my heart.

amanda, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/06/25

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Dear Amanda, I believe the symptoms may be caused by mitral valve prolapse.
It is advisable to monitor the situation, and if you experience any further discomfort, you should visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2007/06/25

More Info

When it comes to left chest pain, especially in the context of a previously diagnosed mitral valve prolapse (MVP), it is essential to approach the situation with a comprehensive understanding of both the condition and the potential causes of your symptoms. Mitral valve prolapse is a common heart condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle doesn't close properly, which can sometimes lead to palpitations, chest pain, and other symptoms. However, it is crucial to differentiate between symptoms that are related to MVP and those that may indicate other underlying issues.

Your description of the pain—localized under the collarbone and near the left ribs, along with sensations of numbness in the left arm—raises several considerations. While MVP can cause discomfort, the nature of your symptoms suggests that they may not be solely attributable to this condition. The intermittent sharp pain, along with the radiating discomfort from the shoulder to the back and even the lower back, could indicate muscular or neurological issues rather than a direct cardiac problem.

Muscle tension or strain, especially in the upper back and shoulders, can lead to referred pain in the chest area. This is particularly common if you have been experiencing stress, poor posture, or prolonged periods of inactivity. Additionally, conditions such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum) can also cause similar pain sensations.

The numbness in your left arm is particularly concerning. While it could be related to muscular issues, it can also be indicative of nerve compression or, in rare cases, cardiovascular issues. If the numbness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or significant fatigue, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention.

Given that you have previously been prescribed muscle relaxants without significant improvement, it may be beneficial to explore other avenues. A thorough evaluation by a cardiologist is advisable to rule out any cardiac-related issues, especially since you have a history of MVP. They may recommend an echocardiogram to assess the current state of your mitral valve and ensure that there are no new complications.

Additionally, consulting with a neurologist may help address the numbness and any potential nerve-related issues. They may suggest imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to evaluate for any structural problems that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may have some connection to your mitral valve prolapse, it is crucial to consider other potential causes, including musculoskeletal issues and nerve compression. A multidisciplinary approach involving both cardiology and neurology may provide a more comprehensive understanding of your condition and lead to effective management strategies. Always prioritize your health and seek medical advice when symptoms persist or worsen.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Left Chest Pain: Is It Mitral Valve Prolapse or Angina?

I would like to ask the doctor: I have undergone a resting electrocardiogram, a stress electrocardiogram, a 24-hour Holter monitor, and an echocardiogram. After these tests, the doctor indicated that I have mitral valve prolapse, but everything else looks good. During these tests...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Based on your description, it does not seem like angina, and the exercise electrocardiogram showed no abnormalities. Gastroesophageal reflux cannot be ruled out, so you may want to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. The most likely cause of your discomfort is st...

Understanding Chest Pain: Mitral Valve Prolapse and Its Symptoms

I previously experienced frequent chest tightness and dizziness, so I went to the hospital for an examination. An echocardiogram revealed that I have mitral valve prolapse. I took medication for a while, which helped a bit, but recently, in addition to the original symptoms, I ha...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, this is likely caused by poor posture. At this age, myofascial pain syndrome would not lead to angina, so there is no need to panic. Rheumatic heart disease is not a hereditary condition. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Understanding Left Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Heart Care

Hello Doctor, I have been feeling a tightness in my left chest every morning upon waking up for the past week. It is quite uncomfortable, and I often gently press on the area around my heart to alleviate the discomfort, but it persists. The duration varies, but I feel very uncomf...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Dear, Young individuals may present with at least two or more of the following symptoms: chest pain, palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, panic, and even syncope. These symptoms are not derived from cardiac issues but are instead caused by ex...

Understanding Chest Pain: Is It Related to Heart Issues?

In recent days, I have been experiencing persistent pain in the bones of my left chest. I usually sleep on my side, and it is very painful when I turn over. It also hurts significantly when touched. A few years ago, I had palpitations and consulted a cardiologist, who diagnosed m...

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology
Hello: If there is pain upon touch, it is more likely to be muscle pain. It is advisable to visit an orthopedic specialist for evaluation, where the physician can diagnose and differentiate from other possible conditions.