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Mitral Regurgitation

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is mitral regurgitation (MR)?

MR is also called mitral insufficiency. When your heart contracts, blood leaks backward into your left atrium. Normally, blood flows through the mitral valve from the left atrium to the left ventricle. Then the mitral valve closes. When your heart contracts, blood flows from the left ventricle out to your body.

Heart Chambers

What increases my risk for MR?

MR is caused by damage or weakness of the mitral valve. Any of the following may increase your risk for these problems:

What are the signs and symptoms of MR?

You may not have symptoms, or you may have symptoms that develop gradually:

How is MR diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine you and listen to your heart. He or she will ask if you have ever had strep throat or rheumatic fever. Tell him or her if you have a family history of heart disease. You may also need any of the following:

How is MR treated?

Treatment may not be needed if your condition does not cause symptoms.

How can I manage MR?

What can I do to prevent MR?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.