Treatments For Mitral Valve Regurgitation

Heart Medication

Heart medication is often the first line of treatment for mitral valve regurgitation, and it is a particularly important treatment for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery. Doctors frequently prescribe diuretics to reduce the buildup of fluid in the lungs and lower limbs that can occur with this condition. These drugs cause the body to release larger than normal quantities of salt and water through urination. Diuretics may cause side effects such as increased thirst, headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, increased cholesterol, and muscle cramps. For patients who have both mitral valve regurgitation and atrial fibrillation, doctors may also prescribe anticoagulants (blood thinners), which reduce the risk of developing dangerous blood clots. Patients taking certain blood thinners may need to have frequent blood tests for monitoring. Potential side effects of anticoagulants can include feeling cold and bruising or bleeding more easily after minor injuries.

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