Living With Mitral Valve Prolapse

Most people with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) have no symptoms or problems, need no treatment, and are able to lead normal, active lives. Symptoms and complications, when present, most often can be controlled with medicines. Some people may need heart valve surgery to relieve their symptoms and prevent complications. In a few cases, complications of MVP can result in heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke.

Ongoing Health Care Needs

If you have MVP, you should:

• Check with your health care provider if your symptoms get worse.
• Try to prevent infective endocarditis (an infection of the surface of the mitral valve flaps).
  • Tell your doctors and dentists that you have MVP. Take good care of your teeth and gums. See your dentist for regular visits.
  • Call your doctor if you have any signs of infection, such as sore throat, general body aches, and fever.
  • Take antibiotics exactly as your doctor prescribes for medical or dental procedures (such as surgery or dental cleanings).
• Take all medicines as prescribed, including blood-thinning and high blood pressure medicines.
• Make healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Avoid smoking and taking birth control pills, which increase the risk for blood clots.
  • Talk with your health care provider about how much and what kind of exercise is right for you.
  • Ask about any changes you need to make to your diet.