Mitral Valve ProlapseNot what you're looking for? Show
What is mitral valve prolapse?The mitral valve allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle in the heart. Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is the bulging (prolapse) of 1 or both of the mitral valve flaps (leaflets) into the left atrium when the heart contracts. When the flaps don't close properly, blood leaks backward. This is called regurgitation. Regurgitation may cause a heart murmur, an abnormal sound in the heart caused by turbulent blood flow. When regurgitation is present, it’s generally mild. But it can get worse over time. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle and has 2 flaps. Normally the flaps are tightly closed by small tendon or "cords" that connect the flaps to the muscles of the heart. This closure prevents blood from flowing backwards. In MVP, the flaps enlarge and stretch inward toward the left atrium, sometimes "snapping" during heart contraction. This may allow some back-flow or regurgitation of blood into the left atrium. MVP usually does not need to be treated because it is rarely a serious condition, and it doesn't damage the heart. But regular checkups with a healthcare provider are advised. What causes MVP?The cause of MVP is unknown, but most cases are thought to be inherited. There are 2 forms of MVP: primary and secondary. Primary MVPPrimary MVP means the mitral valve is abnormal because of 1 or more of these changes:
Primary MVP is most often an isolated disease. But it can be linked to other valve or skeletal problems. Some rare instances of MVP are hereditary. Secondary MVPIn secondary MVP, another disease is linked to MVP. Often the valve flaps are not thickened. Prolapse occurs for other reasons. The prolapse may be from:
Who is at risk for MVP?MVP affects both sexes and people of all ages. Factors that may increase the risk of MVP include:
What are the symptoms of MVP?MVP may not cause any symptoms. Symptoms may vary depending on the degree of prolapse present. The presence of symptoms doesn't necessarily match the severity of MVP. Some common symptoms of MVP may be:
Depending on the severity of the mitral regurgitation or leak, the left atrium or left ventricle may become enlarged, leading to symptoms of heart failure. These symptoms include weakness, tiredness, dizziness, and shortness of breath. The symptoms of MVP may look like other medical conditions or problems. Always see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is mitral valve prolapse diagnosed?You may have no noticeable symptoms. Your healthcare provider may hear a click or murmur during a routine physical exam. The "click" is created by the snapping sound of the stretched flaps quickly tightening during contraction. The murmur is caused by the blood leaking back into the left atrium. This may be the only sign of MVP. Along with a complete medical history and physical exam, your provider may order these tests to diagnose MVP:
For more severe symptoms, other tests may be done. These may include:
How is mitral valve prolapse treated?MVP usually doesn't need to be treated because it is rarely a serious condition and it doesn't damage the heart. Regular checkups with your healthcare provider are advised. If you have heart rhythm changes, you may need medicines that control fast heart rhythms or irregular heartbeats. In most cases, you will also need to limit stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, to control symptoms. If you have atrial fibrillation or severe left atrial enlargement, you may need treatment with an anticoagulant (blood thinner) to keep clots from forming. This medicine can be in the form of aspirin, warfarin therapy, or other blood thinners. If you have symptoms of dizziness or fainting, it's important to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. If severe mitral regurgitation is from a floppy mitral leaflet, tear (rupture) of the cords, or extreme lengthening of the valve, you may need surgery to repair or replace the valve. What are possible complications of mitral valve prolapse?Rarely, bacteria that enter the bloodstream can cause endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. This risk is higher in people with MVP because the deformed mitral valve flap can attract bacteria that are in the bloodstream. Gum infections and tooth decay can cause endocarditis, so regularly flossing and brushing your teeth can help prevent it. You may be at high risk for endocarditis if you have had a valve repaired or replaced. You may need to take antibiotics before certain procedures. When should I call my healthcare provider?Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms get worse or if you have new symptoms. Key points about mitral valve prolapse
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Medical Reviewer: Steven Kang MD Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN © 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Not what you're looking for? What happens to blood flow with a mitral valve prolapse?In MVP, when the left ventricle contracts, one or both flaps of the mitral valve flop or bulge back (prolapse) into the left atrium. This can prevent the valve from forming a tight seal. As a result, blood may leak from the ventricle back into the atrium. The backflow of blood is called regurgitation.
Where does blood enter in mitral valve prolapse?In Mitral Valve Prolapse, the flaps enlarge and stretch inward toward the left atrium, sometimes "snapping" during systole, and may allow some backflow of blood into the left atrium (regurgitation).
What is the backflow of blood due to valve prolapse?The mitral valve separates the two chambers of the left side of the heart. In mitral valve prolapse, the valve flaps bulge (prolapse) into the upper left chamber (atrium) during each heartbeat. Mitral valve prolapse can cause blood to leak backward, a condition called mitral valve regurgitation.
Where does blood back up in mitral valve stenosis?With mitral valve stenosis, not as much blood can flow into the left ventricle. More blood stays in the left atrium, and blood may back up into the lungs.
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