Mitral Valve Prolapse
At 30, I was diagnosed as having Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP). The mitral valve between the left atrium and left ventricle does not close properly and may “leak”. This is a common cause for hearing a murmur when listing with a stethoscope. At that time, I had several tests run and was told it was not an immediate concern and I should have periodic monitoring to see that it didn’t worsen. Seeing as how I felt fine, I said “OK” and returned to my normal routine and didn’t really give it much additional thought.
Then, during a routine physical in 2002, my doctor in Cleveland commented on the murmur and recommended a followup — it had been over 10 years since my original (and only) testing. I still felt fine, but went ahead with the request. The ultrasound showed “significant” regurgitation (leaking), but I was still feeling good and had no related problems. It was decided to monitor for any changes. Again, I said “OK” and returned to my normal routine and was not concerned.
Things Change
This summer, things changed. I had a heart attack that required intervention. Two stents were placed and I was put on blood pressure medication – and it was suggested I reduce my weight. I definitely needed to lose weight as I had allowed my self to gain 60-plus pounds in the last 10 years. It was also noted that the MVP was present and I had significant regurgitation – 3-plus on a scale of 0-4. This would now need frequent monitoring to avoid future complications.
Self portrait from my hospital bed
I was feeling good and looking forward to getting home when my hospital stay was lengthened for a couple of days of monitoring due to a short episode of atrial fibrillation. Like the MVP, I was asymptomatic and unaware of the atrial fibrillation.
After I was back home, I began making necessary changes to my diet. No more “convenience” foods from the freezer section at the grocery store. I enjoy cooking, so I started fixing all of my meals with consideration for heart health. Low sodium does not have to be low flavor. This part was actually easy. I also started back with my bicycling. 10-20 miles to start and then up from there. I was feeling great!
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