Im 26 yrs old and was diagnosed with anxiety and panic disorder approx 3 yrs ago. Probably in the past yr or two I have noticed I can just be sitting around and it feels almost like my heart skips a beat and the next one is very distinct, almost heavy feeling. Could this be mitral valve prolapse, as I know it tends to go hand in hand with anxiety and PAs and if so, how is it diagnosed? I've read that an EKG will not pick it up.

Hi jete23,

MVP is a condition where the mitral valve flaps do not close properly and blood is pumped back into the receiving chamber (left atrium) Usually, it is not significant, but if serious it can reduce the supply of blood pumped into circulation. Then one would have symptoms of muscle fatigue, shortness of breath, etc.

What you are describing are palpitations (irregular heart beats).

MVP is diagnosed by an echo. EKG can pick up on palpitations if it occurs during the test.