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Thomas C. Hilton, M.D., F.A.C.C.
WHAT IS IT?
Mitral valve prolapse is a condition that affects 5% to 10% of healthy women and causes symptoms of chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, and occasional light-headedness. People with this condition have a characteristic deformity of the leaflets of the mitral valve that can be seen with ultrasound techniques (echocardiogram). In general, patients with mitral valve prolapse have an excellent life expectancy and require no specific medical or surgical treatment. A very small percentage (probably less than 5%) develop gradual leak (regurgitation) of the mitral valve that can ultimately require surgical intervention. Dangerous irregular heart rhythms may also occur but are extremely uncommon.
Most commonly, patients with mitral valve prolapse are troubled by the symptoms of palpitations which may on occasion be relieved by use of beta-blockers (Inderal, propanolol, metoprolol).
If you or a family member have signs or symptoms of mitral valve prolapse and have further questions about this condition, contact your primary care physician or your Jacksonville Heart Center cardiologist.
Patient materials and videos are provided by the American College of Cardiology Foundation's CardioSmart program. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2009.
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