Can Mitral Valve Prolapse Cause a Heart Attack?
December 13, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart doesn’t close properly. In most cases, mitral valve prolapse is not considered life-threatening or a direct cause of heart attacks. However, in rare instances, complications associated with MVP could potentially lead to specific heart issues.
MVP itself does not directly cause heart attacks. However, there are certain complications associated with mitral valve prolapse that might increase the risk of certain cardiovascular events, including:
- Mitral regurgitation: In some cases of severe mitral valve prolapse, the improper closing of the valve can lead to blood leaking backward into the left atrium (mitral regurgitation). Over time, severe mitral regurgitation could potentially strain the heart, leading to heart enlargement or heart failure, which might increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.
- Infective endocarditis: Individuals with mitral valve prolapse might have a slightly higher risk of developing infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining or valves. If left untreated, infective endocarditis can lead to serious complications affecting the heart.
- Arrhythmias: Some people with MVP may experience irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias, which, in rare cases, could potentially lead to other cardiac events.
It’s important to emphasize that while MVP might present certain risks or complications, the majority of individuals with mitral valve prolapse do not experience severe issues and lead normal, healthy lives without significant cardiac problems.
Heart attacks are typically caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. These blockages can result in reduced blood flow to the heart, leading to damage or death of the heart muscle. MVP itself is not a direct cause of these blockages.
If you have mitral valve prolapse or are concerned about your heart health, it’s crucial to have regular check-ups with a healthcare professional. They can monitor your condition, assess any associated risks, and provide appropriate guidance and treatment to manage the condition effectively.