The rare congenital birth defect referred to as mitral valve disease is characterized by a malfunctioning valve between the left heart chambers. The defective valve either allows blood to leak back through where it originally came from or the valve itself is too narrow to allow sufficient blood flow. Regardless of the defect, mitral valve disease makes the heart work less efficiently and may lead to severe, life-threatening complications. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, complications, tests and diagnosis of mitral valve disease.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mitral valve disease after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Mitral Valve Disease Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of mitral valve disease typically appear when the defective valve allows blood to leak backward through the valve. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Arrhythmia
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
Causes of Mitral Valve Disease
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of mitral valve disease in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the heart defects risk caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of mitral valve disease in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Mitral Valve Disease Complications
While the majority of those who suffer from mitral valve disease rarely encounter problems, complications can occur. These complications may include:
- Mitral valve regurgitation
- Arrhythmias
- Heart valve infection
For more detailed information on the complications of mitral valve disease, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Mitral Valve Disease Tests & Diagnosis
Tests that can help diagnose mitral valve disease include:
- Chest X-ray
- Electrocardiogram
- Echocardiogram
- Cardiac catheterization
- Cardiac MRI
- Holter monitor testing
Do I have a Mitral Valve Disease Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in mitral valve disease lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mitral valve disease after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.