MVP detection

Can an MVP be detected by listening with a stethoscope or picked up by an EKG?  I know you use the echocardiogram, but can the other detect it at all?  I've had normal EKG's and stress tests but have palpitations and lots of anxiety.  However, no one has ever brought up this possibility, so I assumed they did not hear anything.  

Also, is there anything "heart-related" that would cause a feeling of swelling in the left neck in the area right under the jaw?  I have a prominent carotid artery and I get paranoid that there's an aneurysm or something like that.   Thanks

[CCF CARDIO MD - DLB]

Dear Paula

MVP can often be detected on a physical examination. The characteristic sounds and murmur of mitral valve prolapse are not always present on each physical examination and can come and go. There is nothing on ECG that would be diagnostic of MVP. Aneurysms of the carotid artery occur, though they are not common. A swelling right under the jaw is more likely due to an enlarged gland. If you have a persistent enlargement of this area, bring it to the attention of your doctor.

I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.

Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.