What is mitral valve prolapse?
Your mitral valve controls blood flow on the left side of your heart. The valve opens and closes with each heartbeat. It works like a one-way gate, letting blood flow from your upper heart chamber to your lower chamber.
When you have mitral valve prolapse (MVP), the valve closes after blood flows through. Blood flows normally through the valve. But the valve bulges backward a little. It looks like a tiny parachute or balloon as it bulges.
Mitral valve prolapse is not dangerous. It usually does not damage your heart. You will probably not need treatment. You can live a normal, healthy life.
Mitral valve prolapse raises your risk of having a problem called mitral valve regurgitation. This problem happens if the valve does not close tightly enough and blood leaks back (regurgitates) into the upper chamber of the heart. The heart then has to work harder to pump this extra blood.
What are the symptoms of mitral valve prolapse?
Most people do not have any symptoms. You may not even know you have MVP until a doctor hears a "clicking" sound or a murmur when listening to your heart. Your doctor may want you to have a test called an echocardiogram to check for mitral valve prolapse.
How is mitral valve prolapse diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask about your past health and do a physical exam. You may have an echocardiogram, a type of ultrasound, to diagnose this condition.
How is mitral valve prolapse treated?
Most people who have mitral valve prolapse do not need treatment for it. You will likely get regular tests that check how well the mitral valve is working. A heart-healthy lifestyle and regular exercise are recommended for most people.
How can you care for yourself when you have mitral valve prolapse?
Heart-healthy lifestyle
- Do not smoke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Eat heart-healthy foods. These foods include vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, lean meat, fish, and whole grains. Limit sodium, alcohol, and sugar.
- Stay at a healthy weight. Lose weight if you need to.
- Manage other health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol or drug use, talk to your doctor.
- Get vaccinated against COVID-19, the flu, and pneumonia.
Activity
- Be active. If you have not been active before, talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
Mitral valve prolapse: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or increased shortness of breath.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you are not getting better as expected.
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