Mitral Valve Regurgitation in 32 yr old female

[climbingnettie]

Hi, I am a 32 year old, active female who has been recently diagnosed with moderate mitral valve regurgitation.  I have had a heart murmur for years but have always been extremely active until now.  The diagnosis of MVR was made at the beginning of January and I am symptomatic: chest pain, shortness of breath and pounding heart.  My doctor wanted to schedule me for surgery within two months of the diagnosis but due to lack of funds and poor job security, I wanted to wait.  Would it be wise to continue to wait another 5 months before the surgery?  How long can expect to be unable to work?  How long will I be in the hospital after the surgery?  How long does the surgery usually take? I've read a few of your posts but they were addressed to men in their mid forties.
Thanks

[momtofourboys]

Smiley
good for you and going ahead with your surgery. you are so correct that you owe it to yourself as well as your loved ones.

Climbingnettie
I personal don't think you should wait. I know your job might be at risk, but so could your life.
Good luck to both of  you ladies
Michelle

[Smiley2000]

this is a great site with lots of info on Mitral valve regurg.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mitral-valve-regurgitation/DS00421/DSECTION=1

[Smiley2000]

Hi there.  I am also 32, female.  I had "grade 2' mild MV regurg in September 2007 and an Echo done last week showed "grade 4" severe MV regurg.  I am now scheduled for Mitral surgery:  31 March 2008.  I have been very symptomatic for the past 3 months, so I knew something has changed since last year:  muscle weakness, chest pain, SOB, palpitations, get very tired easily.  My heart is not enlarged yet (4,7mm) and I was so shocked that I didn't even ask what my EF is, but I don't think it is a good idea to wait untill the EF is to low and the heart is enlarged.

My Employers are not happy and I am waiting to find out if they are going to grant me unpaid leave or terminate my contract.  But I owe it to my 2 kiddies, hubby and to myself to look after my self and to get better!  I am not living anymore, I am just breathing!

No one can really say how fast your regurg is going to worsen on how fast your valve is going to deteriorate.

Do you know what your EF and heart size is?  what is causing your Mitral problems? stenosis? thickening or deterioration?

you and I should keep in touch :)