Mitral valve prolapse
Alternative names:
Barlow's syndrome; billowing mitral valve; floppy mitral valve; myxomatous mitral valve; prolapsing mitral leaflet syndrome; systolic click-murmur syndrome
Treatment:
In most cases there are no or few symptoms, and mitral valve prolapse does not require treatment. There are no restrictions on activity or diet. Hospitalization may be required for diagnosis or treatment of severe symptoms.
Surgical repair or valve replacement improves symptoms. Surgery may be required if heart function is poor, if symptoms are severe, or if condition deteriorates.
Antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial infection is present. Antiarrhythmics may be needed to control irregular heart rhythms. Vasodilators reduce the workload of the heart. Digitalis may be used to strengthen the heartbeat and diuretics used to remove excess fluid in the lungs. Analgesics or propranolol may be given for chest pain. Anticoagulants may be used to prevent clot formation if atrial fibrillation is present (atrial fibrillation increases the chances of clot formation).
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome varies depending on underlying conditions. Mitral valve prolapse is usually benign and without symptoms. When symptomatic, it is controllable with medications and may be improved with surgery.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms are suggestive of mitral valve regurgitation.
Call your health care provider if signs of infection occur during treatment: fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, malaise (general ill feeling).
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