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i have just been diagnosed with moderate to severe mitral


Sent to Health Experts December 17, 2005 1:34 p.m.
I have just been diagnosed with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation. I have little or no symptoms. My first visit to my cardiologist is this Tuesday. Is it OK to continue exercising. Is it also acceptable to use a hot tub. The nurse contacted me and only indicated NOT to drink anything with caffeine 24 hours prior to my visit.Optional Information: Male , Age: 44Already Tried: Currently using Zestril to lower BP. 20mg 2X daily.

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on December 17 2005 at 1:38pm
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $5   
Answer
December 17, 2005 1:46 p.m. (12 minutes and 16 seconds later) 		ACCEPTED Check Mark

Dear Kurt,

It must be quite a shock for you to here about your disease, especially since you were asymptomatic. This is however the common course of this disease. Coming to your queries, it is OK to use a hot tub and continue exercises that do not cause significant dyspnea. Your exact exercise tolerance levels will be discussed by your doctor after doing the tests, but you must continute to do physical activity.

To maximize your quality of life if you have mitral valve regurgitation, your doctor may recommend that you:

  • See your dentist regularly. Receive regular dental care, following recommendations for the prevention of endocarditis for any dental procedure.
  • Check your blood pressure regularly. Control of high blood pressure is extremely important if you have mitral valve regurgitation.
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet. Food doesn't directly affect mitral valve regurgitation. However, developing coronary artery disease — blockages of arteries that feed your heart — may lead to heart attacks with further weakening of the heart muscle. To follow a heart-healthy diet, eat low-fat foods and check your cholesterol levels regularly. Also, your doctor may suggest that you limit your salt intake.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight may make you short of breath and may complicate heart surgery if you ever need it. Keep your weight within a range recommended by your doctor.
  • Cut back on caffeine. Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) may occur in people with mitral valve regurgitation. Arrhythmias may worsen if you consume caffeine. Ask your doctor about drinking beverages with caffeine, such as coffee and soft drinks.
  • Cut back on alcohol. Heavy alcohol consumption can cause arrhythmias and can make your symptoms worse. If you have mitral valve regurgitation, ask your doctor about the effects of drinking alcohol.
  • Exercise. Physical activity helps to keep your body fit and may also help you to recover faster if you ever need heart surgery. Your doctor usually gives you guidelines for your exercise program. Don't stop exercising if you've received a diagnosis of mitral valve regurgitation. If you find that you're unable to do things because of mitral valve regurgitation, talk to your doctor.
  • See your doctor regularly. Establish a regular evaluation schedule with your cardiologist or primary care provider.

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Dr. Gupta
PictureGaurav Gupta  -- Doctor (MD) -- 98% Positive Feedback on 4602 Health Accepts
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