Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral Valve Prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) occurs when one or both leaflets of the mitral valve do not close properly. This causes a small amount of blood to leak back into the left atrium, instead of completely flowing forward into the left ventricle. (Blood enters the heart at the right atrium, then goes to the right ventricle, the lungs, the left atrium, the left ventricle, and then leaves the heart.) With a stethoscope, this can be heard as a click or murmur.

The cause of MVP is unknown, and about 5% to 10% of the population has this condition, most of them being women. Usually there are no symptoms, but some people may experience chest pain, weakness, or irregular heart beats.

Nutritional Supplements
There are several natural supplements that can help with mitral valve prolapse. Consult with your healthcare provider to see which of the following supplements may be appropriate for you.

NOTE: It is very important to make sure that supplements do not interfere with your medications or an existing health condition.



Vitamins & Minerals
Magnesium – Taking this macromineral at levels up to 500 mg can reduce MVP symptoms, including anxiety, chest pain, weakness, palpitations, and shortness of breath.

Our Recommendation:  Magnesium Malate Chelate from Designs for Health

CoQ10 – In one clinical study, patients received 2 mg of coenzyme Q10 per kg of body weight (about 1 mg per pound). After eight weeks, more than 80% had their heart function restored to normal.

Our Recommendation:  Ubiquinol-QH from Pure Encapsulations


Taurine - found abundantly throughout the body and is required in the formation of bile. Taurine is the most important and abundant free amino acid found in the heart

Our Recommendation: Taurine from Metabolic Maintenance



Homeopathic Remedies
coro-Calm Homeopathic Drops (Pekana) - A cardiac sedative for treatment of tachycardia and disrupted circulatory functions frequently accompanied by anxiety, worry and psychic unrest. or

CARDINORMA drops (Pekana)- cardiac insufficiency, heart muscle weakness, apoplexy, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis, extrasystole, tachycardia, cardiac spasms, and increase O2 utilization.


Infections
With MVP, there is a greater risk for the mitral valve becoming infected, so antibiotics are usually recommended before surgery or dental work.

References
Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.
Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005.