Left Hand Numbness and Vein Swelling: Is It Related to Mitral Valve Prolapse?

Numbness in the left hand with prominent and painful blood vessels?

Hello, doctor.
I have mitral valve prolapse, and in the past, I mostly experienced shortness of breath and occasional chest tightness.
I usually return for check-ups every 1 to 2 years.
However, a week ago, I started experiencing numbness in my entire left arm.
When it was milder, it was just my fingers that felt numb.
The day before yesterday, I had to work overnight for over 12 hours, and after sitting for a long time, the veins in my left arm became very prominent, and I felt a sense of swelling and pain.
I had to raise my arm to alleviate the numbness; the veins would subside, but as soon as I lowered my arm, they would become prominent again, and the numbness would return.
I’m not sure if it’s psychological, but my legs also feel a bit swollen.
Upon reflection, I realized that I drank less water that day (could it be poor blood circulation?), but I usually drink enough water.
I recently found out online that mitral valve prolapse can also cause hand numbness.
Doctor, could this sudden change be related to my mitral valve, or is it an issue with my blood vessels? Could it be varicose veins? Thank you for your help.

aa, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/07/07

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, this is not varicose veins.
It is likely due to prolonged work leading to poor peripheral circulation and venous return.
Moving around and doing some simple exercises can improve the situation.
These are not serious conditions, so there is no need to worry.
Mitral valve prolapse itself does not cause hand numbness; rather, it is often associated with autonomic nervous system disorders, which can lead to symptoms like hand numbness.
Our nursing staff also experience similar symptoms after a long day of work.
Swelling can occur, and resting at home with your hands or feet elevated, as well as wearing compression stockings, can help.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2012/07/07

More Info

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common heart condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, which can lead to mitral regurgitation (MR). While MVP itself is often benign and may not cause significant symptoms, it can sometimes be associated with various systemic symptoms, including those affecting the extremities, such as numbness or swelling.

In your case, the left hand numbness and vein swelling you are experiencing could be multifactorial. While MVP can occasionally lead to symptoms like palpitations or anxiety, it is less commonly associated directly with localized numbness or swelling in the limbs. The symptoms you describe, particularly the numbness in your left hand and the noticeable swelling of the veins, may be more indicative of a vascular issue or nerve compression rather than a direct consequence of your MVP.

One possibility is that prolonged sitting and working for extended hours, as you mentioned, could lead to compression of nerves or blood vessels in the arm. This is often seen in conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome, where the nerves are compressed due to posture or repetitive strain. The swelling of the veins could suggest venous insufficiency or even a thrombosis, especially if you have been sedentary for long periods.
Additionally, dehydration can lead to thicker blood, which may exacerbate feelings of swelling or discomfort in the extremities. It is essential to maintain adequate hydration, especially during long working hours. The fact that your symptoms improve when you elevate your arm suggests that there may be a venous component to your symptoms, as elevating the limb can help reduce swelling and improve venous return.

It is also worth considering that anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling, particularly in the context of pre-existing conditions like MVP. However, the sudden onset of these symptoms warrants further investigation to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Given your history of MVP and the recent onset of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough examination. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound of the veins in your arm, to assess for any vascular issues, and possibly nerve conduction studies to evaluate for any nerve compression.
In summary, while mitral valve prolapse can be associated with various symptoms, the specific symptoms of left hand numbness and vein swelling are more likely related to vascular or neurological issues rather than a direct consequence of MVP. It is crucial to seek medical advice to ensure a proper diagnosis and appropriate management of your symptoms.

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