Mitral Valve Prolapse: Left Arm Pain and Numbness

Mitral valve prolapse accompanied by left hand pain and numbness?

I underwent a cardiac ultrasound and was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse.
However, I also experience pain and numbness in my left arm.
After researching, I found that left arm pain is often associated with vascular obstruction.
My lipid levels are normal, and exercise alleviates my heart pain.
I have not seen anyone else with mitral valve prolapse who also experiences left arm pain.
I often have to assist my left chest like Dong Shi imitating a frown.
One doctor speculated it might be neuropathic pain.
Calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers have been ineffective.
However, taking Ativan effectively relieves my heart pain, which might be related to emotional factors (I am certain it is not muscular pain!).
Sometimes, my heart experiences persistent, intense pain for two to three days, and then it resolves after a day or two, only to start the cycle again.
1.
Is left arm pain considered abnormal in this context?
2.
I once saw a medical news article that mentioned this condition is often associated with beneficial health factors such as lower weight and blood pressure, which may contribute to longer life expectancy.
From your professional perspective, is this possible?
3.
Besides ultrasound, what other tests can be performed?
Thank you for your help!

Yīshēng nín hǎo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/25

Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology

A 20-year-old woman typically does not experience vascular obstruction issues.
The pain and numbness in the left hand may be caused by other factors.
Mitral valve prolapse may not always correlate with usual symptoms.
It is important to engage in regular exercise, relaxation, maintain a normal lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, and follow a healthy diet as part of overall health maintenance for longevity.
(While longevity is a general societal value, whether living longer is better is a personal judgment worth contemplating.)

Reply Date: 2010/05/25

More Info

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can lead to various symptoms, including palpitations, chest pain, and in some cases, discomfort in the left arm. Your experience of left arm pain and numbness, while concerning, is not uncommon among individuals with MVP. However, it is essential to understand the potential causes and implications of these symptoms.

1. Is Left Arm Pain Normal?
Left arm pain can be associated with several conditions, including cardiac issues, nerve compression, or musculoskeletal problems. In the context of MVP, it is often attributed to referred pain from the heart or anxiety-related muscle tension. While it is not typical for MVP to cause left arm pain directly, the anxiety and stress that can accompany heart conditions may lead to muscle tension and discomfort in the arm. Additionally, if there is any nerve involvement, such as thoracic outlet syndrome or cervical radiculopathy, it could also manifest as pain or numbness in the left arm.

2. MVP and Longevity:
The statement regarding individuals with MVP potentially having a lower body weight and blood pressure, leading to a longer lifespan, is intriguing. While some studies suggest that certain characteristics associated with MVP, such as being lean and having lower blood pressure, may correlate with better health outcomes, it is essential to approach this with caution. MVP itself is generally considered a benign condition, but it can lead to complications such as arrhythmias or mitral regurgitation in some patients. Therefore, while lifestyle factors may contribute to longevity, the presence of MVP alone does not guarantee a longer life.

3. Additional Diagnostic Tests:
Besides echocardiography, which is the primary diagnostic tool for MVP, there are several other tests that can be performed to assess heart function and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. These may include:
- Holter Monitor: This is a portable device that records your heart's rhythm for 24-48 hours, helping to identify any arrhythmias that may be causing your symptoms.

- Stress Test: This test evaluates how your heart performs under physical stress and can help determine if there are any exercise-induced arrhythmias or ischemic changes.

- Cardiac MRI: This imaging technique provides detailed pictures of the heart's structure and function, which can be useful in assessing the mitral valve and surrounding tissues.

- Blood Tests: While you mentioned that your lipid levels are normal, it may still be beneficial to check for other markers, such as inflammatory markers or thyroid function tests, which can sometimes contribute to cardiac symptoms.

In conclusion, while left arm pain in the context of MVP may not be typical, it is essential to consider all potential causes, including anxiety and musculoskeletal issues. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor your condition and address any new or worsening symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be warranted to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan or if you have concerns about your symptoms.

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