Mitral Regurgitation

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole. This can lead to an increase in volume and pressure in the left atrium, potentially causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations.

Causes

Mitral regurgitation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Symptoms

The symptoms of mitral regurgitation can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
  • Fatigue
  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Swollen legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid buildup

Diagnosis

Mitral regurgitation is typically diagnosed using a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:

  • Echocardiogram: an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart and its valves
  • Chest X-ray: a test that uses radiation to create images of the heart and lungs
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart
  • Cardiac catheterization: a procedure where a small tube is inserted into an artery in the leg and guided to the heart to measure pressure and take blood samples

Treatment

The treatment for mitral regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

  • Medications: such as diuretics, beta blockers, and ACE inhibitors to manage symptoms and slow disease progression
  • Surgery: to repair or replace the mitral valve, including procedures such as mitral valve annuloplasty or mitral valve replacement
  • Minimally invasive procedures: such as transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) or percutaneous mitral valve repair

Complications

If left untreated, mitral regurgitation can lead to complications such as:

Prognosis

The prognosis for mitral regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition, the presence of underlying medical conditions, and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper management and treatment, many people with mitral regurgitation can lead active and normal lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mitral regurgitation?
Mitral regurgitation is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the left ventricle into the left atrium.

What are the symptoms of mitral regurgitation?
Symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and feet, and palpitations or irregular heartbeats.

What causes mitral regurgitation?
Causes can include mitral valve prolapse, rheumatic heart disease, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and endocarditis, among others.

How is mitral regurgitation diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, and possibly cardiac catheterization or MRI.

What are the treatment options for mitral regurgitation?
Treatment may include medications to manage symptoms, surgery to repair or replace the mitral valve, and lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.

Can mitral regurgitation be managed without surgery?
Mild cases may be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, but more severe cases often require surgical intervention.

What are the risks of untreated mitral regurgitation?
Untreated mitral regurgitation can lead to complications such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and pulmonary hypertension.

Can mitral regurgitation be prevented?
Some cases may be preventable by managing underlying conditions such as high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, but not all cases can be prevented.

What is the prognosis for someone with mitral regurgitation?
Prognosis varies depending on severity and presence of other health conditions, but generally, with proper treatment, many people can lead active lives.

Does mitral regurgitation increase the risk of other heart problems?
Yes, mitral regurgitation can increase the risk of developing other heart problems, such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

Article last updated on: 18th October 2025.
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