New Delhi: Palpitations after exercise can be because of arrhythmias, or structural defects in the heart like Mitral Valve Prolapse, it could be telling you that after a workout session at the gym, or a jog in the park, have you ever felt a rapid, fluttering sensation in the heart, finding it hard to catch a breath? These could be indications of Mitral Valve Prolapse. The mitral valve is responsible for regulating blood flow in the left side of the heart. It is one of the most common heart diseases which impacts the valve between the left heart chambers. This occurs when the mitral valve’s flaps tend to bulge backward into the left atrium of the heart during contraction.
Talking about the same, Dr. Brajesh Kumar Mishra, Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, explained how palpitations and Mitral Valve Prolapse are linked.
The mitral valve is one of the four valves in the heart that keeps the blood flowing in the right direction. If the valve doesn’t open properly, blood flow reaching the heart can become irregular or reduced. In some cases, when the blood leaks backward through the valve, the condition is called mitral valve regurgitation.
Signs that you might have Mitral Valve Prolapse:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: It may cause sharp or recurrent chest pain, particularly when you’re at rest. Unlike chest pain related to heart attacks, this pain is not usually caused by physical exertion.
- Irregular Heartbeats (Palpitations): Many individuals with MVP report feeling like their heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats. This is due to abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) often associated with the condition.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or while lying down, may be an indication of the disease. This symptom can also occur without any strenuous activity.
- Fatigue and Low Energy: Chronic tiredness and a lack of energy are common in people suffering from Mitral Valve Prolapse, even when they’re engaging in regular daily activities.
- Dizziness or Fainting: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or even fainting spells could indicate a problem with the blood flow regulated by the mitral valve.
What are the causes and diagnosis of Mitral Valve Prolapse?
A few of the contributing factors can be – aging, enlargement of the left ventricle of the heart, people who have undergone radiation therapy may have a higher risk of heart valve damage, endocarditis (infection in the heart), certain connective tissue disorders, and others.
It can be diagnosed via the following tests:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): This is a good method to test for mitral valve prolapse which may show ST-T changes premature ventricular beat QT prolongation etc.
- Chest X-ray: An x-ray of the lungs can be conducted to check for enlargement of the heart.
Echo is the simplest or easiest way of confirming the diagnosis. - Cardiac MRI: This takes a detailed image of the heart that can be used to detect any discrepancy in the heart valves or muscles, or to even prepare for heart surgery if required.
Recognising the signs can help you take proactive steps to protect your heart health. For individuals with severe cases or complications like mitral regurgitation, surgical procedures such as mitral valve repair or replacement may be necessary. These procedures can significantly improve the quality of life and prevent further damage to the heart. If you suspect you might have MVP or are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to consult a cardiologist. To avoid or minimize the possibility of Mitral Valve Prolapse, one can amend their lifestyle choices like – maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, prohibiting alcohol and smoking, etc. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can ensure better outcomes and help you lead a healthier, more active life.
Workouts are meant to raise heart rate; however, if the same is giving you palpitations, it could be something wrong. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
