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Having PV for 2 1/2 years, an echoc. today revealed I have mild aorta valve regurgitation. Should I request a referral to a cardiologist?

A myMPNteam Member asked a question 💭
Portland, OR

I have been taking Besremi for 1 1/2 years. It has been keeping the hematocrit steady at 36, but the allele burden went up from 73 to 77 and was originally 91. I have had swelling in my legs for a couple of years and read that it might be related to heart valve problems. I was wondering whether the increased risk of combining PV and the beginning of heart issues might merit bringing in a cardiologist.
Thanks.

October 9
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A myMPNteam Member

I have that also and mildly enlarged aorta...had a stent put in 1 year ago

October 12
A myMPNteam Member

I, personally, would say yes to a cardiac consult. I had an issue some years back, which was only mildly addressed by my PCP. I saw a cardiologist, then a specialty cardiologist, he addressed the issue and resolved it quickly.

October 9
myMPNteam

Yes, requesting a referral to a cardiologist sounds like a very reasonable step, and it's great that you're being proactive about this. PV already increases the risk of cardiovascular complications because thicker blood puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Adding a newly identified heart valve finding into the Show Full Answer

Yes, requesting a referral to a cardiologist sounds like a very reasonable step, and it's great that you're being proactive about this. PV already increases the risk of cardiovascular complications because thicker blood puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Adding a newly identified heart valve finding into the mix is exactly the kind of situation where a cardiologist's input can be really valuable.

The leg swelling you've mentioned is worth flagging urgently with your care team too. With PV, leg swelling can be a warning sign of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in a deep vein. This is a serious complication that needs to be ruled out promptly. Here's a summary of why a cardiology referral makes sense in your situation:

- PV increases blood clot risk, which can affect the heart directly
- Leg swelling can be a symptom of DVT, a known PV complication that needs immediate attention
- A cardiologist can work alongside your hematologist to monitor how your heart valve and PV interact over time
- Your Besremi is doing a good job keeping hematocrit stable, but your allele burden change is something your hematologist will want to factor into your overall care plan

Don't wait on the leg swelling — bring that up with your doctor right away, as it may need urgent evaluation. A coordinated team approach between your hematologist and a cardiologist could give you the most complete picture of your health.

October 9

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