A normal valve is fairly rigid and opens and closes completely with even regularity. It may close with a faint click, or may permit a tiny amount of blood to leak through, producing a heart murmur. A large prolapse can actually allow blood to seep back into the top chamber. Incidence It is estimated that four to seven percent of the population lives with a mitral valve prolapse of some degree. It is far more common in women than men.
Some individuals can live their whole lives without symptoms.
Those who do have symptoms may experience heart palpitations, chest pain, fainting, shortness of breath, lessened stamina, or fatigue with periods of weakness. Prognosis Mitral valve prolapse is generally not considered to be a life threatening or a progressive condition. MVP may be the most benign of the various types of heart murmurs, and is quite possibly genetic in origin. There are cases, however, where MVP poses significant dangers to an individual. In such instances, valve replacement is an option.