prolapsed mitral valve

Posted By Kathy on October 29, 1998 at 16:19:05:







I am 48 yrs old (female) and have been told I had a murmur since a teenager. I have episodes of palpitations (lasting a few minutes)that have been recorded (King of Hearts) as supraventricular tachcardia and atrial fib. A recent echo showed anterior leaflet mitral valve prolapse with trace to mild regurgitation. Ejection fraction 60-65%. Everything else was normal except mild tricuspid regurgitation without PA systolic pressure elevation. I had a EKG several years ago that was borderline consistent with rt ventricular conduction delay.  I was recently diagnosed as being hypertensive and am on Diovan and Hydrochlorthiazide.  My BP is lower but I continue to have problems with fluid retention and,when holding fluid, experience shortness of breath with stairs and tire more easily.  I continue to exercize (treadmill 4MPH, 20 min, 4-5 times per week with a pulse range of 130-140). My resting heart rate is in the upper 60s.I am not overweight.Questions: Should I have any more tests done? Is this all part of MVP? Why am I continuing to have fluid retention? It seems that all of this has become gradually worse--is it likely to continue getting worse? Is there anything else likely going on?
Thank you!