Thursday, November 20, 2008

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Health Library

Bacterial Endocarditis
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Valve Problems, Aortic Insufficiency
Valve Problems, Aortic Stenosis
Valve Problems, Diagnosing
Valve Problems (Heart)
Valve Problems, Medications
Valve Problems, Mitral Insufficiency
Valve Problems, Mitral Stenosis
Valve Problems, Mitral Valve Prolapse
Valve Surgery
Valve Surgery, After
Valve Surgery, Minimally Invasive
Valves, Understanding

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Heart Valve Problems: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse is the most common heart valve problem. With this problem, the valve bulges slightly back into the atrium when it closes. This may allow a tiny amount of blood to leak. Minor symptoms such as mild chest pain or palpitations may occur. Mitral valve prolapse is usually not serious. In some cases, mitral valve prolapse can progress to serious mitral insufficiency.

Possible Causes

Mitral valve prolapse is often present from birth. Sometimes, mitral valve prolapse may develop later in life due to wear and tear or other health problems. The tendency to have it may be inherited (passed down from your parents).

Image of closed valve
Closed mitral valve with prolapse (viewed from above).
Image of women
Mitral valve prolapse is rarely a reason to limit activity.

Treating Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse rarely needs treatment unless symptoms are severe. Medications can help relieve bothersome symptoms. Your doctor may ask you to come in from time to time for tests to check your heart valve and be sure the problem doesn’t progress.

Ver 9.