1. Understanding Mitral Regurgitation

   • Mitral regurgitation is a condition where the heart’s mitral valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow backward into the left atrium. This affects the heart’s efficiency in pumping blood and can lead to symptoms and complications over time.

2. Symptoms and Urgency

   • Rapid palpitations, breathing difficulties, shoulder pain, and heavy sweating are concerning symptoms that may indicate worsening heart function or complications. These symptoms resemble those of a heart attack and require immediate medical evaluation to ensure safety and appropriate care.

3. Diagnostic Evaluation

   • To assess the severity of mitral regurgitation and heart function, doctors typically use tests such as an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), electrocardiogram (ECG), and sometimes stress tests. These help guide treatment decisions.

4. Treatment Options

   • Medical management: Medications like beta-blockers can help control symptoms such as palpitations and reduce strain on the heart but do not cure the valve problem.
   • Surgical options: Mitral valve repair is often preferred and can provide a permanent solution by fixing the valve. If repair is not possible, valve replacement with an artificial valve may be necessary.
   • Minimally invasive procedures: For some patients who are not good candidates for surgery, transcatheter mitral valve repair (e.g., MitraClip) offers a less invasive alternative.

5. Specialist Care

   • It is crucial to consult a cardiologist or cardiac surgeon who specializes in heart valve diseases. They can provide personalized evaluation and recommend the best treatment plan based on the severity and symptoms.

6. Lifestyle and Monitoring

   • Regular follow-up appointments and echocardiograms are important to monitor the condition’s progression. Lifestyle changes such as managing blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can support heart health.

If your wife is experiencing these symptoms, please seek urgent medical attention immediately. For ongoing care, a cardiologist’s guidance is essential to determine the best approach for her mitral regurgitation.

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