Treatment of MVP consists of several different therapies, all of which are important. To successfully relieve MVP symptoms all these therapies may be important.
Diet:
It is very important that MVP patients eat a nutritionally complete, well balanced diet. Inadequate diets can worsen MVP patients' low energy levels. At the Alabama MVP Center, doctors recommend that patients totally eliminate caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant drug found in many drinks (such as coffee, tea, and colas) and some foods (such as chocolate). Caffeine tends to stimulate the autonomic nervous system and worsen symptoms.
MVP patients should work toward the reduction of sugar in the diet. A surge in blood sugar for MVP patients stimulates the autonomic nervous system and may make symptoms worse. MVP patients should have a mid-afternoon high-protein snack, such as cheese or peanut butter crackers, instead of sugary food.
When MVP patients need to lose weight, fad and crash diets should be avoided. "Diet pills" must be absolutely avoided as these worsen MVP. MVP patients who need to lose weight should discuss their diet plan with their doctors.
Fluids:
Adequate fluid
intake is also very important for MVP patients. Many symptoms of MVP (such as dizziness, weakness, light-headedness, etc.) are due to low blood pressure and low blood volume that can be helped through drinking adequate amounts of water. Most MVP patients should drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water or non-caffeinated beverages per day.
Exercise:
Patients with MVP often need to improve physical fitness. Regular exercise is necessary to improve fitness and reduce MVP symptoms. Exercise should be aerobic, such as walking, running, bicycling, swimming, etc., and should be discussed in advance with a physician.
Medication:
Medication may be required to improve symptoms of MVP. Patients must take any medication as directed. Be patient!
It often requires two or more weeks of medication before patients notice any change in MVP symptoms. No patient should stop taking or change the amount of his or her medication without first consulting a physician.
