Re: MVP and enlarged Heart

Posted By Lawrence on May 27, 1999 at 13:31:56
I recently attended a routine physical exam and was told that I had a murmur - and EKG was performed that stated Sinus Brachycardia, Ventricular Hypertrophy and enlargement. I then had a second EKG that was normal.
Following the recommendation of my doctor I visited a cardologist who performed a third EKG that came out abnormal with enlargement. The cardologist suggested an echocardiogram and hinted that I may have MVP.
Wary of 'a little knowledge is dangerous' I read around the subject to find that ventricular enlargement is as a result of the Mitral Valve letting too much blood back into the ventrical.
Now if I observe my phycsical state I am fit, run 2-3 times a week low pulse rate (62), normal BP 145/78 and do not have any of the typical symptoms chest pain, loss of breath, palpatations etc .
My questions are as follows:
1. How can two ECK come up abnormal and one normal - all within the same week ?
2. If I was experiencing servere MV regurgitation - would I not also be experiencing fatigue, chest pains, loss of breath etc.
Thanks in advance. Being able to ask these questions really saves my sanity !!
Lawrence

[CCF CARDIO MD DLB]

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on May 28, 1999 at 17:38:04
Dear Lawrence
1. EKGs can have some degree of variability from day to day. Furthermore, the abnormality noted on the EKG was probably of borderline significance.
2. It is quite possible to have severe leakage and experience no symptoms. The echocardiogram should settle the issue.
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.











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