Mitral regurgitation is the leaking of blood from the left ventricle across the mitral valve, and into the left atrium. The flow of blood pumped by the heart is controlled by one-way valves. These valves assure that blood moves in only one direction. When the mitral valve leaks, some of the blood that should be pumped into the body instead goes backward into the left atrium. If the amount of blood that leaks is severe, mitral regurgitation can be a serious condition that requires care from your doctor. The sooner it is treated, the more favorable the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor immediately.
There are several causes for leaky heart valves. Birth defects can deform them. Infections can scar them. Heart attacks can damage them, and the mechanics of an enlarged heart can stretch out the opening so that the valve is no longer large enough to work effectively.
The following factors increase your chance of developing mitral regurgitation. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:
These symptoms may be caused by mitral regurgitation or other serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Leaking heart valves usually make sounds that can be heard through a stethoscope. You will likely be referred to a cardiologist.
Tests may include the following:
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Treating heart failure and heart disease may render the mitral valve competent.
There are several open heart surgical procedures that can fix leaking valves. The type chosen will depend upon the particular nature of the valve.
To help reduce your chance of getting mitral regurgitation, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
US National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health
http://www.nlm.nih.gov
The Merck Manual–Second Home Edition
http://www.merck.com
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Cardiovascular Society
http://www.ccs.ca/home/index_e.aspx
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
http://ww2.heartandstroke.ca
References:
Braunwald E. Valvular heart disease. In: Isselbacher K, et al. (Eds). Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Wood AJJ. Adverse reactions to drugs. In: Isselbacher K, et al. (Eds.) Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine . 14th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Wynne J, Braunwald E. The cardiomyopathies and myocarditides. In: Isselbacher K, et al. (Eds). Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicinem . 14th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 1998.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Michael J. Fucci, DO
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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