Is Mitral Valve Prolapse Dangerous?

What You Need to Know

- Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath

What is Mitral Valve Prolapse?

The mitral valve is one of the four valves in the heart and is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Its role is to ensure blood flows in one direction — from the atrium to the ventricle. In MVP, the flaps (or leaflets) of the mitral valve bulge backward into the atrium when the heart contracts. This can sometimes cause a small amount of blood to leak backward, a condition known as mitral regurgitation.

Symptoms

Many people with MVP have no symptoms and may not even know they have it. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Chest pain (not related to a heart attack)

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

• Fatigue

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

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Anxiety or panic-like sensations

These symptoms can vary widely from person to person, and in many cases, they are not life-threatening.

When is MVP Dangerous?