Background: The annoying and frightening symptoms associated with mitral valve prolapse syndrome (MVPS) interfere with social functioning and cause patients to seek help in emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and primary care offices. Objective: To describe common MVPS symptoms and self-care treatments reported by individuals. The conceptual framework that guided the study was built on the work of Lenz and colleagues who proposed a theory of unpleasant symptoms. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional design involving patients aged 21 and over diagnosed with MVPS. The sample of 837 persons completed a MVPS symptom checklist and survey, MUIS, SF-36, STAI, MOS Social Support, and Food Frequency Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics used to address the study questions Results: Over 50% of the respondents reported palpitations, anxiety, skipped heartbeat, fatigue, lightheadedness, panic attacks, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Self-care interventions to improve symptoms included adequate rest, avoiding stress and caffeine, regular exercise and increased water intake. Alternative therapies included yoga, meditation, music and relaxation. Conclusions: Information obtained assists in developing data on symptoms of MVPS and self-imposed interventions. These data are necessary to develop and modifying existing education and self management interventions aimed at reducing anxiety and improving the health and well being of the millions of Americans newly diagnosed with this syndrome annually.
Session #1200 - Self Care
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)