What is mitral valve regurgitation?
Mitral valve regurgitation happens when one of the heart’s valves doesn’t close all the way. This allows some blood to move backward instead of flowing forward through the heart.
Over time, this extra strain can make the heart work harder and may affect how well it pumps blood to the body. The condition can develop slowly or occur suddenly, depending on the cause.
Symptoms and Causes
Mitral valve regurgitation often develops quietly. Some people may not notice symptoms for years, especially in mild cases.
As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
- Feeling unusually tired
- Trouble keeping up with normal physical activity
- Sensation of a fast or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or neck veins
- Occasional chest discomfort
In sudden or severe cases, symptoms can appear quickly and may include serious breathing problems or signs of low blood pressure.
Common causes include:
- Age-related changes or weakening of the valve
- Mitral valve prolapse
- Past infections such as rheumatic fever
- Heart attack or coronary artery disease
- Infection of the heart valves
- Heart muscle disease
- Congenital heart conditions
- Injury or damage to valve structures
Certain factors, like untreated infections or IV drug use, can increase the risk.
How is it diagnosed?
Your provider will begin with a physical exam and listen for changes in your heart sounds. If mitral valve regurgitation is suspected, imaging tests help confirm the diagnosis.
Common tests include:
- Echocardiogram to view valve function and blood flow
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart rhythm
- Stress testing to see how your heart performs during activity
- Advanced imaging, such as cardiac MRI or transesophageal echocardiography, when needed
These tests help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment decisions.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether symptoms are present.
Monitoring and medications
Mild cases may only need regular checkups. If symptoms develop, medications may help:
- Drugs to lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart
- Medications to control heart rhythm
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
- Blood thinners if irregular heart rhythms occur
Procedures and surgery
If the condition becomes more advanced, procedures may be recommended:
- Repairing the valve to improve how it closes
- Replacing the valve if repair isn’t possible
- Minimally invasive or catheter-based options for select patients
In sudden or severe cases, treatment may be needed urgently.
Recovery and long-term care
Many people do well with treatment and ongoing monitoring. Regular follow-ups are important for tracking changes and preventing complications.
