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Mitral regurgitation - chronic
Alternative Names: Chronic mitral valve regurgitation; Mitral valve insufficiency Treatment: Hospitalization may be required for diagnosis and treatment of severe symptoms. Surgical repair or replacement of the valve is recommended if heart function is poor, if symptoms are severe, or if the condition deteriorates. Once the diagnosis of mitral regurgitation is made, periodic follow-up by a specialist is needed to determine the appropriateness of surgery. Text Continues Below Antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial infection is present, or prior to dental work or other procedures in cases of mitral valve prolapse. Anti-arrhythmic drugs (medications that regulate the heart rhythm) may be needed to control irregular rhythms and vasodilators (drugs that dilate blood vessels) to reduce the workload of the heart. Digitalis may be used to strengthen the heartbeat, along with diuretics (water pills) to remove excess fluid in the lungs. Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (blood thinners) may be used to prevent clot formation if atrial fibrillation is present; atrial fibrillation increases the chances of clot formation. A low-sodium diet may be helpful. Most individuals have no symptoms; but if a person develops symptoms, activity may be restricted. Expectations (prognosis): The outcome varies and depends on the underlying conditions. Usually the condition is benign, so no therapy or restriction is necessary. Symptoms can usually be controlled with medication. In severe cases, valve repair or valve replacement may be necessary. Complications: endocarditis (infection of the heart valve) heart failure pulmonary emboli (blood clots in the lungs) stroke clots to other areas arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), including atrial fibrillation and lethal arrhythmias Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>