What Are Mitral Valve Regurgitation Symptoms?
Signs and symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation depend on how severely and quickly the disorder develops. Most often, mitral regurgitation is mild and develops slowly. Because many patients have no symptoms (see “Were You Asymptomatic Like Sherri?”), you may be completely unaware that you have this mitral regurgitation. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, when signs and symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation develop, they do so gradually because the heart is able to compensate for the valve defect. Mitral regurgitation is often detected when your doctor hears a heart murmur with a stethescope. Sometimes, however, the disorder develops quickly, and you may experience an abrupt onset of more severe symptoms. Indicators of mitral valve regurgitation include: • Shortness of breath, especially with exertion or when you lie down Fatigue, especially during times of increased activity Cough, especially at night or when lying down Heart palpitations – sensations of a rapid, flu