Mitral Valve Prolapse
Mitral Valve Prolapse is a defect in the structure of the heart which normally causes no adverse symptoms to the individual who has the condition. However there are exceptions to the rule and those who have the condition and have symptoms as a result of it often find themselves prone to some of the following:
- Palpitations
- Stress
- Anxiety or Panic Attacks
- Dysautonomia
- Heart Murmur
- Dehydration
Many of the individuals who have the condition don't - as we have already mentioned - normally exhibit any symptoms from it. In fact roughly around a tenth of the population have this condition without it ever causing them any problem.
What Happens if I Exhibit The Symptoms of Mitral Valve Prolapse?
If you do exhibit any of the above symptoms we have listed then you will probably suffer high levels of stress. This is something that is common with any number of medical conditions but Mitral Valve Prolapse can amplify these levels of stress because of what is known as Dysautonomia.What is Dysautonomia?
Dysautonomia is a flaw in the autonomic nervous system - that part of the mind that deals with what psychologists refer to as 'fight or flight'. Dysautonomia can cause the sufferer to be extremely susceptible to certain types of stimulation such as excessive stress, too much caffeine, a reduction in blood sugar or the effects of certain prescribed medications.If I Have Been Diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse Should I Worry?
For the most part no, there is nothing to worry about unless you are one of the very few who display the symptoms we have listed above. If you are suffering from these symptoms then your doctor should have prescribed you with antibiotics that will reduce the risk of bacterial infection in your heart.Mitral Valve Prolapse and Fibromyalgia
There are quite a few Fibromyalgia sufferers who have also been diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse but as yet there are no proven links between the two conditions. It is important however to note that if you are suffering from Fibromyalgia you should everything in your power to ensure that your heart is in good working order.A good way to ensure this is the case is to exercise as and when you can; nothing too vigorous especially if you wish to reduce the risk of a 'flare up'. A short walk even if it is up and down stairs will help as well as plenty of fresh air and a healthy diet.
If you do find that you are particularly stressed - which many Fibromyalgia sufferers do - then you should consult your doctor as to whether he thinks a course of mild anti-depressants might help. These anti-depressants not only help relieve stress but also provide valuable relieve from pain by relaxing the muscles in and around the trigger points of the body.
