Mitral Valve Prolapse

Ongoing Concerns

Monitoring your condition and seeing your doctor

Many people with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) are not aware that they have it until they have a routine physical or other checkup. Symptoms are rare. There is a slight chance of complications; if your doctor thinks you are at risk for complications, he or she will do more frequent exams. Tests, such as echocardiograms, are rarely needed.

Complications

Complications of MVP are rare. They are more likely in those who have serious structural problems with their valves. This generally occurs in people who have some form of connective tissue abnormality or in older people (mainly men). The most common complication of mitral valve prolapse is mitral valve regurgitation.

Symptoms that may appear with MVP may also be symptoms of other conditions or complications of MVP. Because of this, it is important to be aware of and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

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Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: February 9, 2009
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine George Philippides, MD - Cardiology
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