Rheumatic fever is a serious illness that can result in long-term damage to the heart and other organs. It is caused by an untreated streptococcal infection, commonly known as strep throat.

While the incidence of rheumatic fever has decreased in developed countries, it still affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in low-income countries with limited access to healthcare. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of rheumatic fever, emphasizing its role as a common cause of heart disease.

1. Causes

Rheumatic fever occurs as a complication of an inadequately treated group A streptococcal infection, specifically strep throat.

When strep throat is left untreated or undertreated with appropriate antibiotics, the body’s immune system may react to the infection in an abnormal way. The immune system mistakenly launches an autoimmune response which causes inflammation in various parts of the body, including the heart, joints, skin, and brain.

2. Symptoms

The symptoms of rheumatic fever can vary and may not appear immediately after the initial strep throat infection. Some common symptoms include:.

– Fever.

– Joint pain and swelling.

– Chest pain.

– Fatigue.

– Shortness of breath.

– Skin rash.

– Nodules under the skin.

– Abnormal movements.

– Rapid or irregular heartbeats.

– Sydenham’s chorea (involuntary jerky movements).

3. Diagnosis

Diagnosing rheumatic fever can be challenging since the symptoms can be similar to other conditions.

However, several criteria are used to establish a diagnosis, including the Jones criteria, which evaluate the presence of specific symptoms, laboratory tests, and a history of preceding strep throat infection. Tests such as blood tests, throat swabs, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiogram may also be conducted to detect any abnormalities in the heart.

4. Treatment

The primary goal of treatment for rheumatic fever is to eliminate the infection, relieve symptoms, control inflammation, and prevent further damage to the heart and other organs.

This typically involves a combination of antibiotics to eradicate the streptococcal bacteria, such as penicillin or erythromycin. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin or corticosteroids, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to monitor and treat complications.

5. Complications

Unfortunately, rheumatic fever can cause long-term complications, particularly when the heart is involved. These complications can include:.

– Rheumatic heart disease: Over time, rheumatic fever can lead to permanent damage to heart valves, resulting in rheumatic heart disease.

This condition can lead to heart failure, infection of the heart valves (endocarditis), and other cardiovascular complications.

– Heart murmurs: Damage to the heart valves may lead to the development of abnormal heart sounds or murmurs.

– Valvular stenosis: The narrowing of heart valves due to scarring and inflammation can cause valve stenosis, which restricts blood flow and puts additional strain on the heart.

– Arrhythmias: Rheumatic fever can cause abnormal heart rhythms, leading to a variety of symptoms, including palpitations, dizziness, and fainting.

– Heart failure: Severe damage to the heart valves and muscle can eventually result in heart failure, whereby the heart is unable to pump blood adequately.

6. Prevention

Preventing rheumatic fever involves prompt and adequate treatment of strep throat infections with appropriate antibiotics.

It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider to ensure the bacteria are completely eradicated. Individuals who have already had rheumatic fever are at higher risk of recurrent episodes and should be prescribed long-term antibiotics to prevent further infections.

Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, and avoiding close contact with individuals who have strep throat can also help reduce the risk of infection.

Conclusion

Rheumatic fever remains a significant health concern, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare. It is crucial to recognize and promptly treat strep throat infections to prevent the development of rheumatic fever.

Given its potential to cause long-term damage to the heart and other organs, education and awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment are vital. By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of rheumatic fever, we can work towards reducing its impact and improving outcomes for those affected.