Mitral Valve Prolapse
MVP
Definition
Mitral valve prolapse or (MVP) occurs when the leaflets of the mitral valve bulge (prolapse) into the heart's left upper chamber (left atrium) like a parachute during the heart's contraction.
Etiology
Cause of MVP
The most common cause of MVP is abnormally stretchy valve leaflets.A person can be born with the genetic risk of developing MVP or it can be caused by other health problems, such as some connective tissue diseases.
Signs and symptoms
Fluttering or rapid heartbeat called palpitations
Shortness of breath especially with exercise
Dizziness
Passing out or fainting
Panic anxiety
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Regurgitation(blood flowing backwards)
Chest pressure
Treatment
Doctor will prescribe you medication called Beta Blockers. beta blockers may be used to treat palpitations​(rapid,irregular heartbeat) and chest discomfort in people who have little or no mitral valve back flow. If you have significant back flow and symptoms, your doctor may prescribe,blood-thinning medicines to reduce the risk of blood clots forming.
Complications
Mitral regurgitation is the most common complication of mitral valve prolapse.MR may be acute (due to ruptured chordae tendineae causing flail mitral valve leaflets) or chronic
Prognosis
Most patients with MVP have an excellent prognosis similar to age- and sex-matched controls.A small number will develop serious complications that include infective endocarditis, severe mitral regurgitation, and sudden cardiac death.