Having mitral regurgitation is a condition that affects over two percent of the population. It is caused by damage to the valve that controls the flow of blood between the left atrium and the left ventricle. It can result in palpitations, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can also lead to heart failure. Fortunately, there are medicines that can help control symptoms and prevent complications.
If you have a murmur, your doctor may order an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to determine the structures and function of your heart. An electrocardiogram is a medical test that uses electrodes attached to your chest and arms to monitor your heart’s rhythm. Your doctor may also order a cardiac catheterization, a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in the heart through a tube that is inserted from your leg. This test can show the severity of your condition and whether you need treatment.
If your doctor believes that your condition is serious, he or she may order a cardiac MRI. This test can provide detailed images of the left ventricle. If you have mitral regurgitation, the MRI can assess the severity of the problem and determine whether you need surgery.
If the regurgitation is moderate, you may be able to manage it by taking medications. These drugs can relieve the strain that the heart is placed under. A doctor may refer you to a cardiac specialist if the symptoms are more severe or if you have other complications. A medication that is used to treat aortic regurgitation is fenfluramine. A doctor can also use a diuretic to relieve symptoms.
When you have a severe case of mitral regurgitation, you may experience palpitations, a shortness of breath, or a enlarged left atrium. You may also have a condition known as pulmonary hypertension, which occurs when your blood pressure is too high. It can be caused by sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other disorders. It can be treated with medicines or surgery.
If you have any of the above symptoms, call your doctor immediately. The best way to treat mitral regurgitation is to get it diagnosed early. It can lead to heart failure and a stroke. If your symptoms are not severe, you might be able to manage them with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, exercising, and avoiding alcohol. However, if you have symptoms of severe mitral regurgitation, you should seek emergency care as soon as possible.
In the past, rheumatic fever was one of the leading causes of mitral regurgitation. The bacteria enter the bloodstream and destroy part of the valve. In addition, rheumatic fever can cause scarring of the leaflets. In some cases, the infection can even spread to other parts of the body, which can result in stroke.
During pregnancy, mitral regurgitation can cause complications. This is because the increased pressure in the left atrium can make it difficult for your baby to breathe. A doctor might refer your baby to a cardiac center for treatment.
