Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
Mitral regurgitation is a condition where the mitral valve does not close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward in the heart. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart palpitations. The severity of mitral regurgitation can vary from trace (physiologic, or normal), mild, moderate, or severe, with severe cases potentially causing complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias.
Mitral regurgitation can be caused by several factors, including mitral valve prolapse, heart valve degeneration due to aging, rheumatic fever, or heart conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy. Diagnosis of mitral regurgitation is usually made through physical examination, imaging tests such as echocardiography, and sometimes additional tests like cardiac catheterization or magnetic resonance imaging.
Treatment for mitral regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition and may include medications to manage symptoms or surgery to repair or replace the mitral valve. Regular monitoring is essential for individuals with mitral regurgitation to assess the progression of the condition and adjust treatment accordingly. With appropriate management, many people with mitral regurgitation can lead a normal life with minimal complications.