What is mitral valve prolapse?

Mitral valve prolapse is one of the most common heart valve related problems that many people may live with without any symptoms. This disease occurs when the leaflets of the mitral valve do not close completely and part of the blood returns to the left atrium. Knowing the symptoms, causes and diagnosis methods of this disease can help prevent serious complications. In this article, we will fully review mitral valve prolapse, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment methods. What is mitral valve prolapse? Mitral valve prolapse or **Mitral Valve Prolapse** (MVP) is one of the most common **heart valve problems** in which one of the **mitral valve flaps** located between the **left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart**, instead of closing completely, turns or protrudes toward the left atrium. This condition can cause a small amount of blood to leak (regurgitation) to the atrium. **symptoms of mitral valve prolapse** Many people with mitral valve prolapse do not have symptoms and their disease is discovered during random examinations. However, some common symptoms include: - Heart palpitations or **irregular heartbeats** - Chest pain (not related to activity) Shortness of breath, especially when lying down or exercising - Feeling of chronic fatigue - Dizziness or fainting (in rare cases) ### **Causes of mitral valve prolapse** The main cause of mitral valve prolapse is usually caused by tissue weakness of the valve or stretching of its supporting ligaments. This condition can be hereditary and in some cases it is associated with syndromes such as Marfan syndrome. Other effective factors are: - Family history of MVP - Connective tissue disorders - Underlying heart diseases ### **Ways to diagnose mitral valve prolapse** Diagnosis of this disease is usually done by a **cardiologist** using the following tools: - **Listening with a stethoscope:** Hear midsystolic click or systolic murmur - **Echocardiography:** The most accurate diagnostic method in which the structure and movement of the mitral valve is checked - **Echocardiography through the esophagus:** in special cases for higher accuracy - **Heart strip (ECG):** To check heart rate and possible disorders **Treatment of mitral valve prolapse** The treatment of this disease depends on the severity of **symptoms and the amount of blood return**. Treatment methods include: - **Pharmacological treatment:** including beta blockers to control heartbeat, anti-anxiety drugs or anticoagulants in case of atrial fibrillation. - **Lifestyle change:** reducing caffeine consumption, stress and heavy sports (in symptomatic cases) - **Surgery:** In severe cases where blood return is significant, it may be necessary to **repair** or **valve replacement** ### **Is mitral valve prolapse dangerous?** In most cases, MVP is a benign disease and progresses without causing serious problems. But in some people, it may cause complications such as **cardiac arrhythmias** or **heart failure**. Regular follow-up by **cardiologist** is necessary. **Mitral valve prolapse** is a relatively common **heart disease** that is usually asymptomatic and benign. With early diagnosis and proper care, most patients will lead a normal life. But in advanced cases, more serious treatment such as surgery may be necessary. summary Mitral valve prolapse is a relatively common and often benign heart disease that can be asymptomatic. However, being aware of possible symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath and regular follow-up with a cardiologist plays an important role in preventing complications. In severe cases, drug treatment or surgery can improve the quality of life of patients. Early diagnosis and proper care are the keys to leading a normal life for people with mitral valve prolapse.