Q:I have been diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse. Should I change anything in my lifestyle? Is MVP a dangerous condition?

A: The term Prolapse means sliding backward from a normal position. Mitral Valve Prolapse is a common condition, especially in women, which allows a small amount of blood to leak backward through the valve. A doctor can detect MVP by listening to the heart with a stethoscope or on an Echocardiogram. This is usually not a serious or life-threatening condition. Many patients deny having symptoms, or may complain of “palpitations” or shortness of breath. Antibiotic treatments before dental or surgical procedures should be prescribed by your doctor to prevent infection of the Mitral Valve. Limiting caffeine, and stress, and exercising regularly often helps to keep symptoms to a minimum.