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You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Medical Specialists > Heart & Cardiology > Leaking valve
Expert: David Richardson - 11/10/2009
Question
Hi Dr. I just got back from my annual cardio visit. I am 5'10" and I weigh 182 lbs. I run an average of 15 miles per week. I have mitral valve prolapse which is why I go to the heart Dr every year. Anyway, today after my echo, the Dr. told me that my valve is leaking more so than in the past-there is no swelling. He also explained that I have only 2 chambers in my valve. He put me on enalapril maleate 2.5 mg once a day to slow the leaking. My blood pressure is normally 118/70. I guess my question is how cncerned should I be? My wife is a bit nervous but she tends to panic easily, lol. I am scheduled to go back for a stress test in about 5 weeks. Thank you.
Answer
Dear John,
There's controversy about when to operate on a leaky mitral valve, but my opinion is that as long as you can run 15 miles a week, you don't need surgery. Keep watch on heart chamber size by echo every 6-12 months and if the left atrium or ventricle start to enlarge, reconsider. Stress test is a good idea. It documents your ability to exercise now so you can know if your exercise ability decreases in the future. You said 2 chambers in your valve. Did you mean leaflets? Find out from the doctors if your valve can be repaired or must be replaced. Repair is preferable. Increase the enalapril to a dose that lowers your blood pressure slightly. What's lol? You need not be concerned about serious illness this year, or the next 5-10 years probably. Just keep close watch on your exercise ability and on your heart chamber sizes by echo.
Please write back if this note doesn't answer all your questions.
David Richardson
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