Hello,

Thank you for asking your query.

From your description I understand that your sister has been recently found to have a slight murmur  caused by a leaky mitral valve. This probably is a condition called mitral regurgitation. And there is nothing to be overly worried about it ! The reason being, a leaky mitral valve is a common occurrence. Infact A trivial amount of MR (mitral regurgitation) is detectable with sensitive Doppler techniques in up to 70 percent of healthy adults; this is often termed "physiologic" mitral regurgitation. Another study called ‘Strong Heart Study’ showed moderate valve leak was found in 2 out of 100 normal people. 

The fact that she is does not have any kind of symptoms is a very positive sign. She has excellent Lipid profile, stays active and healthy. So I have the same thing to say as her Doctor said ‘not to worry’. The previous Doctor might have over looked it. This happens occasionally because of the above said reasons (common, not very harmful etc). Your Doctor has recommended the right thing for her. An yearly Echo and physical examination is the best way to monitor the progression, t. Other than the checkup there is no need for any other active intervention.

Wishing you the very best and Good health

Hello,

Thank you for asking the followup question.

The mitral valve leak is not hereditary. It is more of an acquired 'wear and tear' phenomenon. That's said, there is always some genetic component into any disease. And I am sure you both share some similar environmental factors too. So the bottom line is that you may have, you may not have it. Without a testing you cannot be sure about this. 

I somehow feel you are going to be clear. Just an assumption, I guess you will have to wait 2 weeks to be sure about it. The cholesterol levels and this mitral valve leak has no direct relationship. So the lipid values are not a factor in this. 

Hope this helps.

Hello,

The valve has been functioning for 72 years for now ! So there can be wear and tear.

In a lighter note, among all the taps which bought in my house (same time, same model, same company) 1 is leaking, Why ? It happens over a period of time for any moving objects. There can be some reason behind why only 1 tap is having an issue. But its not easy to find it out precisely. Various factors might have influenced (and may be stress too !)

And once more I wan you to understand this valve leak is part of the normal aging process. There is no need for any concern. An yearly followup should do just fine.

Hope this helps

Thank you