Mitral Valve Prolapse

Monitoring your condition and seeing your doctor

Many people who have Reference mitral valve prolapse Opens New Window (MVP) are not aware that they have it until they have a routine physical or other checkup. Symptoms are rare.

After MVP is diagnosed, you will have regular exams. How often you need these exams is based on whether you have complications like mitral valve regurgitation or thickened valve flaps (leaflets). If you do not have symptoms or complications, your doctor may suggest an exam every 3 to 5 years.^{Reference 1}

Symptoms that may appear with MVP may also be symptoms of other conditions or complications of MVP. Because of this, your doctor may do tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Complications

Complications of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) are not common. Most people with MVP do not have significant problems and do not need treatment. Complications of MVP develop mostly in people who have:

• A mitral valve murmur during contraction (systole).
• Thickened mitral valve flaps (leaflets).
• An enlarged upper left heart chamber (atrium) or lower left heart chamber (ventricle).

Complications of MVP include:

• Reference Mitral valve regurgitation Opens New Window, which is the most common complication.
• Infection of the valve and lining of the heart (Reference endocarditis Opens New Window).
• Irregular or rapid heart rhythm (Reference arrhythmia Opens New Window).
• Temporary interruption of blood flow to an area of the brain (Reference transient ischemic attack Opens New Window, or TIA) or a Reference stroke Opens New Window (mainly in those who have Reference atrial fibrillation Opens New Window).
• Reference Heart failure Opens New Window, if mitral valve regurgitation develops.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.