Summary about Disease
Barlow syndrome, also known as mitral valve prolapse (MVP), is a condition in which the mitral valve leaflets (flaps) don't close smoothly or evenly, but instead bulge (prolapse) upward into the left atrium during the heart's contraction (systole). It's a common condition, and in most cases, it's harmless and doesn't require treatment. However, in some cases, it can lead to mitral regurgitation (leakage of blood backward into the left atrium), which may require intervention.
Symptoms
Many people with mitral valve prolapse have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can vary widely and may include:
Heart palpitations (a fluttering or racing heartbeat)
Shortness of breath, especially during exercise or when lying flat
Chest pain (typically not related to exertion)
Fatigue
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Anxiety or panic attacks
Causes
The exact cause of mitral valve prolapse is not fully understood, but it is often attributed to:
Connective tissue disorders: Conditions like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can weaken the mitral valve leaflets and chordae tendineae (the cords that support the valve).
Inheritance: MVP can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Other heart conditions: In rare cases, other heart conditions can lead to mitral valve prolapse.
Idiopathic: In many cases, no specific underlying cause can be identified (idiopathic MVP).
Medicine Used
Medications are typically prescribed to manage symptoms or complications associated with mitral valve prolapse, such as mitral regurgitation or arrhythmias. Common medications include:
Beta-blockers: To slow the heart rate and reduce palpitations.
Antiarrhythmics: To treat irregular heart rhythms.
Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup (if heart failure develops from mitral regurgitation).
Anticoagulants: To prevent blood clots (if atrial fibrillation develops).
ACE inhibitors or ARBs: To lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart (if mitral regurgitation is significant). In severe cases of mitral regurgitation, surgery to repair or replace the mitral valve may be necessary.
Is Communicable
No, mitral valve prolapse is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
For most people with mitral valve prolapse, no specific precautions are necessary. However, if you have significant mitral regurgitation or other complications, your doctor may recommend the following:
Regular checkups with a cardiologist.
Good dental hygiene: to prevent endocarditis (infection of the heart valves).
Avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol: These can trigger palpitations in some individuals.
Managing stress: Stress can worsen symptoms like palpitations or anxiety.
Following a heart-healthy lifestyle: This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking.
Inform your doctor and dentist about your MVP: especially before any invasive procedures.
How long does an outbreak last?
Mitral valve prolapse is not an "outbreak" situation. It is a chronic condition. Symptoms may come and go or remain relatively constant over time. Symptom severity can fluctuate depending on factors like stress, caffeine intake, and overall health. There is no defined "outbreak" period.
How is it diagnosed?
Mitral valve prolapse is usually diagnosed during a physical exam when a doctor hears a characteristic "click" and/or a murmur through a stethoscope. Additional tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition:
Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that shows the structure and function of the mitral valve. It's the most important test for diagnosing MVP.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias.
Holter monitor: A portable ECG that records the heart's activity over 24-48 hours or longer to detect intermittent arrhythmias.
Chest X-ray: To evaluate the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed images of the heart and can be used to assess the severity of mitral regurgitation.
Timeline of Symptoms
There isn't a strict timeline of symptoms. The presentation varies greatly:
Childhood/Adolescence: MVP may be present but asymptomatic.
Adulthood: Symptoms may develop gradually over time or appear suddenly. Some people remain asymptomatic throughout their lives.
Symptoms can be intermittent: Worsening during periods of stress or hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause).
Progression of Mitral Regurgitation: If mitral regurgitation develops or worsens, symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue may increase over time.
Important Considerations
Most people with mitral valve prolapse have a normal life expectancy.
Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is important, especially if you have significant mitral regurgitation or other complications.
Surgery is typically only recommended if mitral regurgitation is severe and causing significant symptoms or heart damage.
Endocarditis prophylaxis (antibiotics before dental or other procedures) is generally not recommended for mitral valve prolapse, unless there's a specific high-risk condition present. Consult with your cardiologist.
Pregnancy is usually well-tolerated in women with MVP, but close monitoring by a cardiologist and obstetrician is recommended.