leaky heart valve

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Submitted by Dr T on November 12, 2013 – 1:06pm

Question: 
Hi, I was diagnosed with having a leaky heart valve some years ago and it was recommended that I have a detailed heart scan every two years. However, they stopped sending for me and i had to visit my G.P just to query why. He advised me to contact the hospital. I did and they were not really helpful.I have recently had to go back to the doctors as I have experienced a butterfly sensation in my chest, much fatigue and I do have a history of over active thyroid. I do worry and get stressed alot  but this is somthing I have always had. Recent thyroid tests keep coming back borderline too. Am I worrying over nothing?  ThanksDonna
Hi Donna,
I think you are right to worry about your symptoms, especially with your history. I suspect it is your mitral valve that is leaking and your symptoms may be related to the mitral valve leak getting worse as well as a rhythm problem. In mitral valve disease the most common arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation. These can cause some degree of heart failure and need treatment!
You need some tests that include an ECG as well as an echocardiogram. There is no reason your doctor should not be able to arrange that for you!
Hope this helps,

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