MITRAL INCOMPETENCE Meaning and
Definition
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Mitral incompetence, also known as mitral regurgitation, is a medical condition characterized by the malfunctioning of the mitral valve in the heart, leading to the backward flow or leakage of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during the contraction phase of the heartbeat. The mitral valve separates these two chambers of the heart and is responsible for ensuring that blood flows only in one direction, from the atrium to the ventricle.
In cases of mitral incompetence, the mitral valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the atrium, resulting in decreased blood flow to the rest of the body. This incomplete closure of the mitral valve can be caused by various factors such as weakened or damaged valve tissues, congenital defects, heart muscle damage, or infections.
The symptoms of mitral incompetence can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the valve malfunction. Common symptoms include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, and fluid retention in the legs and feet. If left untreated, mitral incompetence can lead to complications such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and enlargement of the heart chambers.
Treatment options for mitral incompetence depend on the severity of the condition. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms, while surgical intervention, such as valve repair or replacement, may be necessary for more severe cases. Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare professionals are crucial for individuals with mitral incompetence to prevent complications and maintain heart function.
Common Misspellings for MITRAL INCOMPETENCE
- nitral incompetence
- kitral incompetence
- jitral incompetence
- mutral incompetence
- mjtral incompetence
- mktral incompetence
- motral incompetence
- m9tral incompetence
- m8tral incompetence
- mirral incompetence
- mifral incompetence
- migral incompetence
- miyral incompetence
- mi6ral incompetence
- mi5ral incompetence
- miteal incompetence
- mitdal incompetence
- mitfal incompetence
- mittal incompetence
- mit5al incompetence
Etymology of MITRAL INCOMPETENCE
The word "mitral" in "mitral incompetence" derives from the Latin word "mitra", meaning "headband" or "turban". This is because the mitral valve, located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart, has a shape resembling a turban.
The term "incompetence" in this context refers to the inability of the mitral valve to close properly. The valve's purpose is to prevent the backward flow of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium. When the valve is unable to close tightly, it is considered incompetent, leading to regurgitation or retrograde flow of blood.
Therefore, "mitral incompetence" describes a condition in which the mitral valve of the heart is unable to effectively close, resulting in the backflow of blood.
