heart damage from radiation?

[mmdunne]

I am 46 years old with a history of MVP.  I had breast cancer five years ago treated with lumpectomy, chemo--CMF, and radiation.  The tumor was in the medial aspect of my chest; 8 'clock
in the left breast.  I now have bothersome symptoms that I associated with MVP.  An echo saw that there was only trace regurgitation of the mitral valve, but mild to moderate regurgitaion of the tricuspid valve.  The symptoms that I'm having include: very strong palpitations with a few seconds pause in the heartbeat, shortness of breath after mild exertion, dizziness, and diminished capacity for excersise.  My cardiologist has ordered a Holter monitor, blood work, a repeat echo, and a stress test, although he doesn't seem to think it is anything more than an annoyance.  I am worried about the tricuspid regurgitation since I have no history.  Could the symptoms be from the tricuspid regurgitaion or just the MVP?

[anacyde]

Congrats on being a survivor!  While it is possible for cancer therapies to have a toxic effect on the heart, these typically show up much sooner.  Palpitations can be quit frightening, but most often they truly are just an annoyance.  I think the Holter and echo are a great idea and they will probably offer you peace of mind.

[whatayear]

the symptoms cant be from trace regurgitation moderate maybe but talk to your doc about innapropriate sinus tachycardia or IST alot of docs dont know about it google it and read about it and see if the symptoms fit you . alot of women can develop this after chemo or an infection i developed mine after a cold. I also have regurgitation in tricuspid valve and one other valve not the mitaral but the doc at clevlad said this would not cause these symtoms. you will now moore after the holtier. Ist is also effected by hormones being out of wack make palps really bad

[Momto3]

Hello
Sorry to hear you're bothered by these new symptoms.  I have MVP and MR, and have had lots of echos.  Some have said "aortic regurg," "tricuspid regurg" and others have only reported the MR.  I think it's great that your doctor is being so thorough.  Try not to worry about the tricuspid regurg until you've had all of the tests.  Sounds like your doctor is confident that the TR is nothing more "than an annoyance" but you'll feel better knowing for sure : )  Are your tests scheduled yet?

MVP can be associated with symptoms in some people.  Some doctors support the idea of MVPS (mitral valve prolapse syndrome) though it is not an accepted diagnosis by all doctors.  Google MVPS to give you an idea of the many symptoms that have been correlated to the "syndrome." You'll also be able to read up on the controversary in the medical community.  Keeping it in perspective, it can be interesting reading.  

Try not to worry and be sure to enjoy the day!