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.