Mitral valve prolapse

Overview

The mitral valve sits between the left upper and lower heart chambers. In MVP, its flaps bulge back a little with each beat.

Some people hear a click on exam. A small number develop a leaky valve (mitral regurgitation) over many years.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Heart murmur or palpitations

Less common

• Palpitations
• Chest discomfort
• Tiredness

Look up a symptom: Irregular, skipping, or fluttering heartbeat

When to get medical care

Causes

Valve shape.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Family history

Possible complications

• Heart murmur

Diagnosis

An echocardiogram.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Echo:

Treatment

Follow up.

Self-care

• Limit caffeine if palpitations
• Limit caffeine: it can make palpitations worse
• Stay active: most people with MVP can exercise normally
• Keep follow-up echos if you have a leak

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Keep blood pressure healthy

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a cardiologist (heart doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Don't smoke or vape, and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Ask about cardiac or pulmonary rehab programs.
• Get flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia vaccines as advised.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women: Slightly more common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Harmless for most.

Most people never need treatment.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is my valve leaking?
• How often do I need an echocardiogram?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Mitral valve prolapse