Any dental work, including cleaning, and any invasive procedure can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. This bacteria can infect a damaged mitral valve causing endocarditis . Preventive treatment with antibiotics given just before dental or other invasive procedures may decrease the risk of endocarditis. In severe acute MR, shortness of breath presents as acute pulmonary edema. There may be an abrupt onset of symptoms.
Blood pressure is usually normal.
A chest X-ray may also show fluid in the lungs or prominent pulmonary veins. Other tests may include a chest MRI scan , radionucleotide scans, or a CT scan of the chest . All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only.