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Mitral valve prolapse
Alternative Names: Barlow's syndrome; Floppy mitral valve; Myxomatous mitral valve; Billowing mitral valve; Systolic click-murmur syndrome; Prolapsing mitral leaflet syndrome Treatment: In most cases there are no or few symptoms and treatment is not necessary. There are no restrictions on activity or diet. Text Continues Below Hospitalization may be required for diagnosis or treatment of severe symptoms. Surgical repair or valve replacement may be required if severe mitral regurgitation develops, or if symptoms worsen. Antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial infection is present or if dental work is planned. Anti-arrhythmics (drugs which regulate the heart rhythm) may be needed to control irregular heart rhythms. Vasodilators (drugs that dilate blood vessels) reduce the workload of the heart. Digitalis may be used to strengthen the heartbeat, and diuretics (water pills) may be used to remove excess fluid in the lungs. Propranolol may be given for palpitations or chest pain. Anticoagulants (blood thinners) 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. Some arrhythmias associated with this condition can be fatal, however. Complications: endocarditis -- valve infection severe mitral regurgitation stroke clots to other areas arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>