Can Mitral Valve Prolapse Cause Left Lower Abdominal Pain?

Can heart problems cause pain in the lower left abdomen?

I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse by a doctor when I was between 1 and 20 years old.
After entering the workforce, I only occasionally experienced heart discomfort and sought medical attention.
Recently, I have been experiencing left lower abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and a heavy feeling on my chest, which my friends suggested might be heart-related causing the abdominal pain.

About 2-3 years ago, I had left lower abdominal pain and, due to a history of peptic ulcers and bowel irregularities, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, gynecological ultrasound, cervical examination, CT scan, and gynecological laparoscopy, but no cause was found.
After leaving my job, I started losing weight and exercising daily, which naturally improved my condition.
However, I have still experienced left lower abdominal pain a few times over the past 2-3 years, and I have had heart pain on several occasions.

I would like to ask the doctor if mitral valve prolapse can cause left lower abdominal pain.

Ziyou, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/30

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, heart disease certainly does not cause pain in the lower left abdomen.
A loose valve in the car engine and whether the horn sounds are obviously two different matters.
Based on your description, you may be experiencing discomfort due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Attached is a list of symptoms related to autonomic nervous system disorders for your reference.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2012/08/30

More Info

Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve in the heart does not close properly, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including palpitations, chest pain, and in some cases, anxiety. However, it is important to clarify that MVP itself is not typically associated with left lower abdominal pain. The symptoms you are experiencing could be multifactorial and may not be directly related to the mitral valve condition.

The left lower abdominal pain you are experiencing could be due to several potential causes, including gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal problems, or even referred pain from other organs. Given your history of gastrointestinal issues, such as peptic ulcers and previous abdominal pain, it is crucial to consider these factors. Conditions like diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even complications from previous surgeries could also manifest as left lower abdominal pain.

Additionally, the symptoms of chest discomfort and difficulty breathing you mentioned could be indicative of anxiety or panic attacks, which are not uncommon in individuals with MVP. The sensation of pressure or heaviness in the chest can sometimes be misinterpreted as cardiac-related pain, but it may also stem from anxiety or stress, especially if you have a history of these feelings.

Since you have undergone extensive testing in the past, including endoscopies and imaging studies, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough evaluation of your current symptoms. A cardiologist can assess your heart condition and determine if there is any correlation between your MVP and the symptoms you are experiencing. Additionally, consulting a gastroenterologist may help rule out any gastrointestinal causes for your abdominal pain.

In summary, while Mitral Valve Prolapse can lead to various symptoms, it is unlikely to be the direct cause of your left lower abdominal pain. It is essential to consider other potential causes and to work closely with your healthcare providers to identify the underlying issues. Keeping a symptom diary, noting when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any associated symptoms, can be helpful for your doctors in diagnosing the problem accurately.

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