What is Mitral Regurgitation?
Mitral regurgitation (MR) occurs when the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak backward into the left atrium instead of flowing forward into the left ventricle. This condition forces the heart to work harder, which can lead to complications such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
MR can develop gradually over time (chronic) or suddenly (acute) due to valve damage from infections, heart attacks, or degenerative conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several conditions can lead to mitral regurgitation, including:
- Mitral Valve Prolapse: A common condition where the valve's leaflets bulge into the atrium.
- Heart Attack: Can damage the heart structures controlling the valve.
- Rheumatic Heart Disease: A complication of rheumatic fever that can scar the mitral valve.
- Endocarditis: Infection of the heart lining and valves.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Some people are born with valve abnormalities.
- Cardiomyopathy: Weakening of the heart muscle, affecting valve function.
- Age-Related Degeneration: The valve may weaken with aging.
Symptoms of Mitral Regurgitation
Symptoms depend on the severity of the regurgitation. Many individuals with mild MR may have no symptoms, while severe cases can cause:
- Shortness of Breath: Especially during activity or when lying flat.
- Fatigue: Due to reduced oxygenated blood circulation.
- Heart Palpitations: Irregular or rapid heartbeats.
- Swelling in Legs and Feet: Fluid buildup due to inefficient heart function.
- Chest Discomfort: Some individuals experience chest pain or pressure.
- Heart Murmur: An abnormal sound heard during a stethoscope exam.
Diagnosis of Mitral Regurgitation
Doctors use several tests to diagnose MR and determine its severity:
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to assess valve function and blood flow.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects irregular heart rhythms.
- Chest X-ray: Identifies an enlarged heart or lung congestion.
- Cardiac MRI: Provides detailed imaging of the heart.
- Stress Test: Evaluates heart function under physical activity.
- Cardiac Catheterization: Measures pressure inside the heart chambers.
Treatment Options
Treatment for MR depends on its severity and impact on heart function:
- Medications:
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup.
- Beta-blockers to control heart rate.
- Blood thinners if atrial fibrillation is present.
- Mitral Valve Repair: A surgical procedure to fix the existing valve.
- Mitral Valve Replacement: Replacing the valve with a mechanical or biological prosthesis.
- Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair (TMVR): A minimally invasive option for select patients.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Although not all cases of MR can be prevented, maintaining heart health can lower the risk:
- Control Blood Pressure: Keep blood pressure within a healthy range.
- Manage Heart Conditions: Treat underlying heart diseases promptly.
- Prevent Infections: Good oral hygiene and avoiding untreated infections reduce the risk of endocarditis.
- Healthy Diet and Exercise: Support cardiovascular health with balanced nutrition and physical activity.
- Routine Check-Ups: Regular heart exams help detect early valve disease.