Rheumatic myocarditis Save

Rheumatic Myocarditis: Understanding the Condition

Rheumatic myocarditis is a rare but serious medical condition that affects the heart. It is characterized by inflammation of the heart muscle, known as myocardium, due to rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is a complication of untreated strep throat caused by group A streptococcus bacteria.

1. Causes:

1. Untreated strep throat: When strep throat is left untreated, it can lead to rheumatic fever, which may ultimately result in rheumatic myocarditis.
2. Autoimmune response: Rheumatic fever triggers an autoimmune response in the body, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the heart tissues, leading to inflammation.

2. Symptoms:

• Chest pain: Patients may experience chest pain or discomfort, often described as a squeezing or pressure sensation.
• Shortness of breath: Breathlessness, especially during physical activity, can be a common symptom.
• Palpitations: Irregular or rapid heartbeat may occur in some cases.
• Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or weak despite adequate rest is another symptom.

3. Diagnosis:

Diagnosing rheumatic myocarditis involves a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and physical examination. Additional tests such as blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and cardiac MRI may be performed to assess heart function and identify inflammation.

4. Complications:

• Heart failure: Severe cases of rheumatic myocarditis can lead to heart failure, where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently.
• Arrhythmias: Inflammation in the heart muscle can disrupt the electrical signals, causing irregular heart rhythms.
• Pericarditis: In some instances, the inflammation may extend to the outer lining of the heart, causing pericarditis.

5. Prevention:

Preventing rheumatic myocarditis involves timely treatment of strep throat with antibiotics. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare professional to prevent the onset of rheumatic fever.

In conclusion, rheumatic myocarditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the heart muscle due to untreated strep throat and subsequent rheumatic fever. Recognizing the symptoms, seeking timely medical attention, and practicing preventive measures can help manage this condition effectively.