Mitral valve insufficiency

What is MVI?

The mitral valve is one of the four heart valves that regulate blood flow in the heart. It is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle and prevents blood from flowing back into the atrium when the ventricle contracts. In MVI, the mitral valve is leaky, allowing some of the blood to flow back into the atrium. This leads to increased pressure in the atrium and a reduced pumping capacity of the ventricle. The heart has to work harder to pump enough blood to the body and can enlarge and weaken over time.

How is MVI diagnosed?

MVI can cause different symptoms depending on how severe the condition is and how well the heart can compensate. The most common symptoms include

• Coughing
• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• weakness
• fainting
• weight loss
• loss of appetite
• Abdominal swelling

To diagnose MVI, your vet will perform a clinical examination and listen for a typical heart murmur caused by the leaking valve. They will also take a chest x-ray to assess the size and shape of the heart and a blood test to check the condition of the internal organs. To determine the severity of MVI, your vet may also recommend an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), which shows the structure and function of the heart valves and chambers.

How is MVI treated?

There is no cure for MVI, but there are several medications that can help your dog live better with the condition. Treatment depends on the stage of heart failure and your dog's individual needs. The most common medications include

• Diuretics: These help to eliminate excess fluid from the body, which can build up in heart failure.
• ACE inhibitors : They dilate the blood vessels and lower blood pressure, which relieves the heart.
• Beta-blockers: They slow down the heart rate and reduce the heart's need for oxygen.
• Pimobendan: It increases the contraction of the heart muscle and dilates the blood vessels.

In addition to drug therapy, it is important that you offer your dog a healthy diet that is low in salt and meets its energy requirements. You should also give your dog regular exercise, but do not overwork him. Your vet will recommend how much activity is appropriate for your dog. Finally, you should have your dog examined regularly to monitor his condition and adjust his treatment.

How can you help your dog live well with MVI?

MVI is a serious condition, but it doesn't mean the end for your dog. With early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and good care, you can give your dog a long and happy life with MVI. Here are some tips on how to do that:

• Be attentive to your dog's symptoms and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any worsening.
• Follow your vet's treatment plan and give your dog the medication as prescribed.
• Provide your dog with a high-quality diet that meets his needs and avoid giving him treats or human food that contains too much salt or fat.
• Provide a comfortable environment for your dog that is calm, cool and stress-free. Avoid exposing your dog to extreme temperatures or noise.
• Show your dog lots of love and affection and let him know that you are there for him.