Mitral valve prolapse (MVP), also known as floppy valve, is a fairly common condition, occurring in seven to ten percent of the population, many of whom don't even know that they have the condition. This condition can occur in a person who has no other known heart conditions and is characterized by the enlargement of the flaps of the mitral valve, which is the valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. The role of these valves is to ensure the blood flows from the atrium into the ventricle in one direction, but with MVP the enlargement of the flaps (either one or both of them) causes the valves to collapse or bulge into the atrium. Sometimes a small amount of blood will flow back into the atrium as well. The condition is diagnosed by the distinct clicking sound heard with a stethoscope during an examination. This is one of the least harmful of the known heart murmurs.
MVP is often related to or occurs along with panic attacks and shortness of breath and other similar conditions. Rarely mitral regurgitation occurs, where a large amount of blood flows back through the valve, causing the heart to work harder to pump the blood. People who have MVP also tend to have an underlying instability of their autonomic nervous system, of which the MVP is an outward symptom. Most symptoms of this condition are harmless, although there are a few that can cause concern. People with MVP often have an autonomic response to situations and stresses that are more severe than the average person, causing a greater release of the stress hormones adrenaline and epinephrine.
One major concern with MVP and diving is the possibility of a diver experiencing MVP and mistaking it for a heart attack, which is commonly seen in emergency rooms. Because of the sensitivity of the autonomic nervous system, the person with MVP can experience severe anxiety and feel chest pain, cold sweats, increased heart rate, shortness of breath, and hyperventilation. If this were to occur underwater, then diver would be at risk of serious injury and even death. If a person has this level of anxiety related to the MVP and the underlying instability of their autonomic nervous system, then they should not dive. Other symptoms of an unstable autonomic nervous system include hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, adrenal instability, chemical and food sensitivities, magnesium deficiency, and fluctuating sex hormones, particularly in women.
MVP is not something that contraindicates diving in most people. In fact, exercise is good for people who have MVP and it often results in a minimization of the symptoms, including the number and severity of panic attacks. There are very likely thousands of divers that dive with MVP and do so with no trouble at all. Divers who have MVP should ensure that their symptoms are stabilized through a proper diet that does not include caffeine, sugar, or artificial flavoring agents. It is wise to avoid hypoglycemia by ensuring small meals and snacks are consumed regularly and that complex carbohydrates are consumed with protein to ensure a stable blood sugar level. As stated above, if a diver is at risk for any severe symptoms, then that person should avoid diving until those symptoms and the underlying condition is under control. If this is not possible, then it is recommended that the diver refrain from diving permanently. A person may also need to refrain from diving if there are other conditions, such as changes in consciousness, chest pains, heart palpitations, dysrhythmias, or if they are on certain medications.
Diving is a fun sport, but there are certain health conditions that must be taken seriously. Many health conditions do not cause significant problems if symptoms appear while the person is on dry land but are far more significant and risky when these same symptoms occur underwater. This means that anyone who does have MVP should think twice and consult their doctor to obtain a clear bill of health before diving. After all, no one wants to dive with the worry that something might go wrong.