Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) – Patient Education

What It Is

The heart has four valves that help blood flow the right way. The mitral valve is one of these valves. Mitral Valve Prolapse happens when the flaps of this valve do not close properly. Instead, they bulge (or “prolapse”) back into the upper heart chamber when the heart pumps. This can cause blood to leak backward, which is called mitral regurgitation.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Often caused by a problem in the valve’s tissue that makes it stretchy or floppy.
  
  

• Sometimes runs in families.
  
  

• Can happen with other heart conditions or connective tissue disorders (like Marfan syndrome).
  
  

• More common in women than men.
  
  

• Can happen after a heart attack or infection.
  
  

Signs and Symptoms (Including Early Warning Signs)

Many people with MVP have no symptoms. When symptoms happen, they may include:

• Palpitations (feeling like your heart is skipping beats or racing)
  
  

• Chest pain (not like a heart attack, but sharp or stabbing)
  
  

• Fatigue or feeling very tired
  
  

• Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
  
  

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
  

• Anxiety or panic feelings
  
  

Complications If Untreated or Patient Noncompliance

• Worsening mitral regurgitation causing heart failure
  
  

• Irregular heartbeats that may be dangerous
  
  

• Endocarditis (infection of the heart valve)
  
  

• Stroke (rare but possible if clots form)
  
  

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

• Most people do not need surgery and live normal lives.
  
  

• Regular check-ups with your heart doctor are important.
  
  

• If symptoms are mild, treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
  
  

• Surgery may be needed if valve leakage is severe or causes heart problems.
  
  

• Self-care: avoid caffeine and stimulants that may cause palpitations, manage stress, and follow medication instructions.
  
  

Common Types of Medications

• Beta blockers: slow the heart rate and reduce palpitations
  
  

• Anti-arrhythmics: control irregular heartbeats
  
  

• Blood thinners: if you have risk of blood clots
  
  

• Diuretics: reduce fluid buildup if heart failure occurs
  
  

• Antibiotics: sometimes needed before dental or surgical procedures to prevent infection
  
  

Purpose and Possible Side Effects of Medications

• Beta blockers: reduce palpitations and anxiety; may cause tiredness or cold hands
  
  

• Anti-arrhythmics: control heartbeat; may cause dizziness or nausea
  
  

• Blood thinners: prevent clots; may cause bleeding
  
  

• Diuretics: reduce swelling; may cause dehydration or low potassium
  
  

• Antibiotics: prevent infection; may cause allergic reactions or upset stomach
  
  

Dietary Needs

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  
  

• Limit salt intake if you have swelling or high blood pressure.
  
  

• Avoid caffeine and energy drinks that can worsen palpitations.
  
  

• Drink plenty of water unless otherwise directed.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes

• Avoid tobacco and recreational drugs.
  
  

• Limit alcohol use.
  
  

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation).
  
  

• Get regular exercise but avoid extreme or intense physical activity unless approved by your doctor.
  
  

• Maintain a healthy weight.
  
  

Safety Considerations

• Always tell healthcare providers about your MVP before surgeries or dental work.
  
  

• Follow your medication schedule exactly.
  
  

• Watch for worsening symptoms like increased shortness of breath or swelling.
  
  

• Avoid stimulants that trigger palpitations or chest pain.
  
  

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

• Attend all follow-up appointments.
  
  

• Keep vaccinations up to date to prevent infections.
  
  

• Maintain good dental hygiene to reduce risk of heart infections.
  
  

• Know your symptoms and when to seek help.
  
  

When to Call for Help

Call your Home Health Agency or Doctor if you have:

• New or worsening palpitations
  
  

• Increased fatigue or shortness of breath
  
  

• Swelling in your legs, ankles, or belly
  
  

• Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes
  
  

• Dizziness or fainting episodes
  
  

Go to the Emergency Room or Call 911 if you have:

• Severe chest pain or pressure
  
  

• Sudden fainting or passing out
  
  

• Trouble breathing that is sudden or severe
  
  

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat that won’t go away
  
  

• Signs of stroke such as weakness, slurred speech, or confusion
  
  

© 2025 Judith Regan / K.N.O.W. – Knowledge for Nurturing Optimal Well-Being. All rights reserved. | Educational use only | Not a substitute for medical advice | In emergencies call 911

PATIENT HOMEWORK/ASSESSMENT

Choose True or False and correct all False statements

1. True / False – Mitral Valve Prolapse happens when the valve flaps bulge back into the upper heart chamber.
   
   

2. True / False – Everyone with MVP will have severe symptoms.
   
   

3. True / False – Palpitations are a common symptom of MVP.
   
   

4. True / False – MVP can cause blood to leak backward in the heart.
   
   

5. True / False – Only surgery can treat MVP.
   
   

6. True / False – Beta blockers can help reduce palpitations.
   
   

7. True / False – It is safe to drink energy drinks if you have MVP.
   
   

8. True / False – Good dental hygiene is important for people with MVP.
   
   

9. True / False – You should avoid tobacco if you have MVP.
   
   

10. True / False – MVP can cause irregular heartbeats.
    
    

11. True / False – Swelling in the legs can be a sign of worsening MVP.
    
    

12. True / False – You do not need to tell your doctor about MVP before surgery.
    
    

13. True / False – Anxiety and panic feelings can be symptoms of MVP.
    
    

14. True / False – You should always finish your prescribed medications.
    
    

15. True / False – Stress management can help reduce symptoms of MVP.
    
    

16. True / False – You do not need regular check-ups if you feel fine.
    
    

17. True / False – Severe chest pain requires emergency care.
    
    

18. True / False – MVP can lead to infection of the heart valve if untreated.
    
    

19. True / False – Diuretics can help reduce fluid buildup in the body.
    
    

20. True / False – Shortness of breath that gets worse should be reported to your doctor.
    
    

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Individualized Patient Questions

1. What symptoms should you watch for that would require calling your doctor or home health nurse?
   
   

2. What medications are you currently taking for your MVP? How do you take them?
   
   

3. Have you had any recent tests (like echocardiogram or EKG)? What did your doctor tell you?
   
   

4. What changes can you make to your diet to help manage your heart health?
   
   

5. How do you manage stress in your daily life?
   
   

6. Do you avoid caffeine and other stimulants?
   
   

7. What is your plan to maintain good dental health?
   
   

8. How often do you have follow-up appointments with your cardiologist?
   
   

9. Who can assist you if your symptoms suddenly worsen?
   
   

10. What steps will you take if you experience chest pain or severe symptoms?