Barlow Syndrome / mitral valve prolapse

[Medwatcher]

I was diagnosed with Barlow Syndrome (or Mitral Valve Prolapse) after I lost consciousness about a year ago. I have regular pain in my chest and shortness of breath, which increases severely when I get a shock (fright), stress and exercise. Sometimes, for no reason, I get sudden numbing pain in my chest and blackouts because of this. I also feel weak after such a episode for about 2 days. I am worried that I was misdiagnosed. Can anyone give me more insight?

[cindy707]

Over 30% of the human race suffer from MVP and most don't have issues w. it until they become senior citizens.  One thing that is absolutely for sure here is that you need to be monitored by a physician.  Blackouts and dizziness are never a good thing for anyone and especially if they happen when there is no one around you to assist you when they occur.  If it were my body i would definately seek a second opinion from a doc that has run the gambit of tests on you.  A second opinion is never a bad thing at all.  Some of the symptoms that you have described are definately indictive of issues w. MVP but it would depend on the degree of the prolapse and how much regurgitation is going on w. you.  If you are indeed on any type of beta blocker that could definately account for the dizziness because a beta blocker lowers our blood pressure and when it becomes too low you end up w. dizziness.  I would say w. what you have going on that you need to be seen sooner rather then later by a doc....these are all red flags that you have thrown here and you really need to get to the bottom of it by a doc that you trust and know will have your best interest at heart.  Good luck to you and let us know how it all works out for you.....

[ed34]

I'm sure an echo was performed to confirm the floppy valve? The symptoms from this condition can usually be controlled with the right medication and it's rare that serious cases develop requiring further treatment, such as surgery to rectify the valve.
When having dental treatment or surgery, it's important to have antibiotics because there's an increased risk in infection getting into your blood which can further damage the valve. Many people with this condition are born with it and never find out until late in life. If you are feeling symptoms which you describe, I would chat with your Doctor about your medication and maybe have a new echo to ensure the condition hasn't worsened. I assume you are on beta blockers already?