atrial arrhythmias

  Dear Forum,
  You kindly responded to some questions on atrial arrhythmnias I have been
  experiencing, particularly a new atrial arrhythmia that has recently
  developed after 3 RFAs.
  I have been reading questions put to your Forum and have noticed that MVP can
  cause arrhythmias.    Could this be a possibility for me, or would this have
  been picked up by my Consultant by now?  I have had an echo and stress test.
  I am very keen to know why I keep developing atrial arrhythmias
  (but not to make a self-diagnosis) and would appreciate any
  comments you may have on any possible causes.
  Thank you.
  Regards,
  Karman

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

Dear Karman, thank you for your question.  Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is usually associated with premature atrial and ventricular beats, not atrial arrhythmias.  The premature beats associated with MVP are almost always benign and do not need to be treated.  If you have already had an echo, then MVP should have been seen, if it is present.  There are many reasons why you have had atrial arrhythmias, but the most likely cause is that you have extra electrical pathways in the heart that are prone to generating arrhythmias.  Presumably, that is why you had 3 RFA procedures.  However, only your own physician can determine the cause of your arrhythmias so I suggest that you ask the same questions to your physician.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.  Good luck!
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