Question: I was born with mitral valve prolapse which causes frequent palpitations that sometimes result in blackouts/fainting spells. I'm currently on atenolol once a day. Can anything else be done? I have no health coverage other than Medicare.
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Mitral valve prolapse is probably not the reason for your fainting. While mitral valve prolapse (MVP) may predispose you to palpitations, blackouts are a sure sign you need further immediate evaluation.
Consider a consultation with your primary care physician (PCP) to have a syncopal workup without delay. Consider asking for a referral to a cardiologist and/or neurologist for consultation and review after your initial workup with your PCP.
Random syncopal episodes are often a sign of severe dysregulation and a significant source of death, injury, and disability when left untreated. Pick up your phone now or consider an evaluation for this by a board-certified emergency physician at a nearby hospital emergency department. You need to have an immediate screening for events that may become life-threatening.
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