What Is the Abnormal Protrusion of a Heart Valve That Results in the Inability of the Valve to Close Completely?
The abnormal protrusion of a heart valve that results in the valve being unable to close completely is called mitral valve prolapse. During this condition, the mitral valve bumps upward or back into the upper chamber or the left atrium during the contraction of the heart. This can lead to a condition called mitral valve regurgitation, which is the flow of blood in the left atrium.
This condition is not a cause of concern in many people; therefore, it may not need medical treatment or a change in lifestyle, as stated by Mayo Clinic. However, there are certain situations that treatment is required. Symptoms can only occur when the condition leads to mitral valve regurgitation and will vary from one person to another. The symptoms may include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
In a normal condition, the mitral valve helps to prevent the flow of blood back to the left atrium when the heart contracts. In people with mitral valve prolapse, the leaflets of the mitral valve develop a bulge that prevents the valve from closing tightly. Making an appointment with a doctor is only necessary when a person experiences symptoms, as stated by Mayo Clinic.
