Mitral Value Prolapse...explain?? - Heart Disorders Message Board

NatashaW · 10-12-2005, 03:57 PM

Could someone help explain what a mitral value prolapse is??I just found out I have this (not severely). Am going back to the doc next week to discuss it further. Is medication needed?? Does this condition cause heart attacks??

Timber · 10-12-2005, 05:17 PM

Mitral Valve Prolapse is a benign and common condition. Many cardiologists actually argue that it's just a normal anatomical variation of the heart and not a heart condition at all. No, it does not cause heart attacks or any other dangerous symptoms except in extremely rare cases.

Medication is not needed, unless you have a lot of palpitations that are bothersome, in which case your doctor might prescribe beta blockers.

NatashaW · 10-12-2005, 06:13 PM

Thanks for the response. I actually am having a lot of symptoms. My heart feels like it is fluttering all the time. I am also dizzy and weak. Actually almost passed out a few times. Also, I heard that beta-blockers can increase an asthmatic's condition to worsen, which wouldn't be good in my case...but are their alternative drugs??

Timber · 10-12-2005, 08:18 PM

Are you sure that mitral valve prolapse is your only diagnosis? MVP shouldn't cause you to pass out or almost pass out, nor should it cause other severe symptoms. Have you worn a holter monitor? Had an echo?

Titchou · 10-12-2005, 08:47 PM

Are you a caffeine user or on antihistamines or other meds that cause a fast heartbeat? Both can exacerbate the situtation. My doc swore I had MVP but it didn;t show up clearly on the holter or the echo. Took me off ALL caffeine (even chocolate) and changed my allergy meds. Symptoms went away almost completely.
Now, I may have a flutter every now and again but a cough straightens it out and I have no side effects. I think it's all hogwash myself....