Mitral Valve Prolapse and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Explained

Mitral valve prolapse associated with autonomic dysfunction?

Hello Dr.
He, a few years ago I experienced occasional palpitations and subsequently was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse at National Taiwan University Hospital.
My condition was well-controlled, and after some time, I stopped taking medication and only needed annual follow-ups.
Three years ago, due to good follow-up results, I did not continue with any related examinations.
However, in November of this year, I started waking up every morning with severe chest pain, feeling as if my heart was being tightly squeezed.
When the pain is mild, I can still sit up by myself, but it lasts for about 10 to 20 minutes, and any movement causes pain.
When the pain is severe, I cannot sit up on my own and need my husband to help me get up.
After getting up, the pain can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
I later returned to National Taiwan University for an echocardiogram, and the doctor diagnosed me with "mitral valve prolapse with autonomic nervous system dysfunction." I would like to ask: 1.
Can an echocardiogram detect "autonomic nervous system dysfunction"? 2.
Since my husband and I are planning to have a child and I prefer not to take medication, are there any other physical therapy options available? 3.
Given that I experience daily pain, would jogging to improve my cardiovascular fitness be beneficial? I have quite a few questions, and I appreciate your assistance in clarifying them.
Thank you.
Amber

Amber, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/02

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, echocardiography cannot diagnose autonomic nervous system disorders.
To confirm the diagnosis, you need to visit a psychosomatic medicine department that has autonomic nervous system testing equipment.
However, this examination often requires out-of-pocket expenses.
Exercise can improve the stability of the autonomic nervous system, but it may not provide immediate relief.
It is recommended to use medication to stabilize your condition during the acute phase before incorporating exercise, yoga, or religious practices.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/12/02

More Info

Hello Amber,
Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and its relationship with autonomic nervous system disorders. It's important to understand how these conditions can interact and affect your overall health.

1. Can echocardiography detect autonomic nervous system disorders?
Echocardiography is a valuable tool for assessing the structure and function of the heart, including conditions like mitral valve prolapse. However, it does not directly measure autonomic nervous system function. Autonomic nervous system disorders can manifest through various symptoms, including heart palpitations, anxiety, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure, but these are typically assessed through clinical evaluation and specific tests such as heart rate variability analysis or tilt table tests. Therefore, while your echocardiogram can confirm the presence of MVP, it cannot diagnose autonomic dysfunction directly.

2. Are there non-pharmacological treatments for autonomic nervous system disorders?
Yes, there are several non-pharmacological approaches that may help manage symptoms associated with autonomic nervous system disorders. These include lifestyle modifications such as stress management techniques (e.g., mindfulness, yoga, and meditation), regular physical activity, and dietary changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and stress, which can exacerbate autonomic symptoms. Additionally, physical therapy focused on strengthening and conditioning may help improve overall physical resilience. It’s essential to discuss these options with your healthcare provider to tailor a plan that suits your specific needs, especially considering your plans for pregnancy.

3. Will jogging help improve my cardiovascular function?
Regular aerobic exercise, such as jogging, can indeed enhance cardiovascular health and improve autonomic regulation. Exercise has been shown to increase heart rate variability, which is a marker of better autonomic function. However, given your current symptoms of chest pain and discomfort, it is crucial to approach exercise cautiously. Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase intensity as tolerated. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen, especially since you are experiencing daily pain. They may recommend a tailored exercise program that considers your MVP and autonomic symptoms.

In summary, while echocardiography is excellent for assessing structural heart issues like MVP, it does not diagnose autonomic nervous system disorders. Non-pharmacological treatments, including lifestyle changes and physical therapy, can be effective in managing symptoms. Regular exercise, when done safely, can improve cardiovascular health and autonomic function. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that any new treatment or exercise plan is appropriate for your condition.

Wishing you the best in your health journey and your plans for starting a family. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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