Mitral valve prolapse often requires making some lifestyle adjustments to manage your symptoms and prevent complications.

Mitral valve prolapse occurs when the valve between your heart’s left upper chamber and left lower chamber doesn’t close properly.

Many people with mitral valve prolapse experience no symptoms and may be unaware of their condition. However, in more severe cases, it can cause noticeable symptoms.

Regular exercise is generally safe for most people with mitral valve prolapse, but managing the condition often requires lifestyle changes, such as limiting caffeine and alcohol intake if you drink. Your doctor may also advise you to avoid medications that can raise blood pressure.

Let’s discuss what to avoid if you have mitral valve prolapse, including tips to help maintain your heart health and prevent the condition from worsening.

If you have mitral valve prolapse, avoiding certain triggers can help maintain your heart’s health and prevent symptoms from worsening.

Medications

Certain medications can worsen mitral valve prolapse symptoms or cause complications.

For example, decongestants containing pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, commonly found in over-the-counter cold and allergy medications, can increase blood pressure and worsen symptoms.

Also, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil), especially in high doses or with prolonged use, may increase your risk of heart attack.

While doctors often prescribe beta-blockers to manage high blood pressure, they can sometimes lower it too much, causing dizziness or fainting.

Diet

Although no specific diet is required for mitral valve prolapse, experts recommend avoiding certain foods and drinks that can increase your risk of complications or worsen symptoms.

High sodium foods, often found in processed foods, salted snacks, and canned soups, can increase blood pressure, strain the heart, and worsen mitral valve prolapse symptoms.

While moderate caffeine and alcohol intake may be safe for some people, one 2015 study found that heavy consumption can trigger palpitations and increase heart rate, worsening mitral valve prolapse symptoms.

Lifestyle habits

Risk factors for other heart diseases, such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, may also increase the possibility of developing heart valve diseases like mitral valve prolapse.

Smoking and heavy alcohol intake can worsen heart conditions by damaging blood vessels, increasing heart tissue strain, and raising blood pressure, leading to more severe symptoms and complications like heart attack.

Chronic stress can also worsen cardiovascular diseases by increasing adrenaline levels, leading to more frequent palpitations, chest pain, and higher blood pressure. These can all strain the heart valves and worsen mitral valve prolapse.

If you have mitral valve prolapse, there are several steps you can take to manage your condition and maintain your heart health.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage your symptoms. Beta-blockers are often prescribed to reduce palpitations and control heart rate.

If mitral valve regurgitation develops, your doctor may prescribe angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or diuretics to manage fluid retention and blood pressure.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and inform them of any new symptoms or side effects.

Diet

A heart-healthy diet can help manage mitral valve prolapse. This diet involves:

  • ​eating plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • prioritizing whole grains over refined grains
  • including lean proteins like fish and poultry
  • limiting saturated and trans fats
  • reducing sodium intake
  • avoiding sugar and processed foods

A 2019 review also suggests that a Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and support heart health.

Exercise

While certain exercises are safe for people with mitral valve prolapse, choosing the right type of activity is important.

A 2022 study notes that people with mild valvular heart disease may follow the standard guideline of 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. However, it’s important to avoid high intensity activities if you have severe valvular heart disease.

What is the best exercise for mitral valve prolapse?

The best exercise for mitral valve prolapse typically includes moderate aerobic activities, such as yoga, walking, or swimming. These exercises help improve cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on the heart. However, talk with your doctor for personalized advice.

Regular follow-ups with your doctor

Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important for monitoring your condition. During these visits, your doctor will closely monitor the health of your mitral valve, typically through echocardiograms, to evaluate heart function and detect any progression of the condition.

These appointments also enable your doctor to assess potential complications, such as arrhythmias or the development of mitral regurgitation. Your doctor will review any new symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal heart health.

Preventing complications from mitral valve prolapse may involve:

  • regularly monitoring your heart health through echocardiograms
  • taking prescribed medications as directed by your doctor
  • maintaining a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and unhealthy fats
  • getting regular low to moderate intensity exercise
  • managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy
  • avoiding stimulants, such as caffeine and certain medications
  • avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption

Below are some frequently asked questions about mitral valve prolapse.

What worsens mitral valve prolapse?

The progression of the disease can lead to severe mitral regurgitation and worsen mitral valve prolapse.

Does mitral valve prolapse get worse with age?

Mitral valve prolapse can worsen with age, especially if it leads to mitral valve regurgitation due to heart valve degeneration.

Does anxiety make mitral valve prolapse worse?

Anxiety can trigger an increased sympathetic response that could intensify palpitations or chest discomfort associated with mitral valve prolapse, creating a cycle where symptoms of one can worsen the experience of the other.

In what position should you sleep with mitral valve prolapse?

The best sleeping position for mitral valve prolapse remains unclear. While some experts suggest sleeping on your right side may be better for people with heart diseases, evidence is not strong enough to confirm this.

Is mitral valve prolapse hereditary?

Yes, mitral valve prolapse can be hereditary. If you have a family history of mitral valve prolapse, regular screenings are advisable.

Lifestyle adjustments for mitral valve prolapse may include avoiding certain medications, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine.

Regular follow-ups with your doctor are also important for monitoring your condition and adjusting your treatment as needed.