Heart Valve Problems: Mitral Valve Prolapse

Symptoms of mitral valve prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse may not cause symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may include:

• Mild chest pain

• Pounding or racing heart (palpitations)

• Shortness of breath

• Trouble breathing with activity

• Fatigue

• Migraine headaches

• Fainting

Possible causes

Mitral valve prolapse is often present from birth. But some people can develop it later in life. In some cases, the condition is passed down from your parents (inherited).

Treating mitral valve prolapse

Most people with mitral valve prolapse have mild disease that doesn't get worse. It doesn't need to be treated. But sometimes the valves get more stretched out over time and can cause symptoms. Medicines can help ease symptoms.

Your healthcare provider may ask you to come in from time to time for tests to check your heart valve and to be sure the problem hasn’t gotten worse. In severe cases, surgery to fix or replace the valve may be needed.