Causes of Mitral Valve Prolapse
The mitral valve is 1 of 4 valves in our heart. It is located between the left ventricle and left atrium. The main role of this part is to regulate the blood flow between chambers. When the left ventricle contracts, it should close completely. This helps prevent blood from moving back to the left atrium. Mitral valve prolapse occurs when this valve has an abnormal structure. As a result, it would cause a backward leakage of blood. Depending on the amount of backup blood, many health issues may occur. [1]
Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the mitral valve leaflets stretch more than usual or have extra tissue. This causes them to bulge into the left atrium during a heart contraction. Also, the bulging would prevent the mitral valve from closing completely. As a result, blood would flow backward. In most cases, a small amount of leaked blood is not a source of problems. When the leakage is more significant, it would lead to symptoms, such as lightheadedness, fatigue, or shortness of breath. [2]
