Definition:
Ballooning mitral valve syndrome is a relatively common heart defect characterized by the failure of the mitral valve between the left ventricle and the left atrium to close properly. It is also called mitral valve prolapse or MVP.
Diagnosis:
Ballooning mitral valve syndrome may be diagnosed at any age through a routine stethoscope examination of the patient's heart. To confirm the diagnosis, an echocardiogram may be done.
Treatment:
In asymptomatic patients, ballooning mitral valve syndrome does not require treatment. If the patient develops symptoms, however, physicians may recommend medications to treat associated chest paint, heart rhythm abnormalities, and other complications. Some of these drugs include beta blockers, aspirins, and anticoagulants. In some cases, the disease may need to be treated surgically with a valve repair or valve replacement procedure.
Symptoms and Signs:
Ballooning mitral valve syndrome is asymptomatic and harmless in most cases. However, there are cases where the disease progresses with symptoms such as: arrhythmia or irregular heartbeats; a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness; shortness of breath and breathing difficulties; fatigue and weakness; as well as chest pains that are not related to heart attack or any coronary heart condition. These symptoms are usually mild at the onset and develop gradually though time.
Causes:
If the heart is functioning normally, the mitral valve closes when the left ventricle contracts to prevent blood flow into the left atrium. In patients with ballooning mitral valve syndrome, the mitral valve malfunctions and fails to close. The condition may be caused by abnormalities in the mitral valve, including the presence of extra tissue, which keep the valve from closing properly. This disease is believed to be hereditary.
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ballooningmitralvalvesyndrome
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