Rheumatic fever is a disease that occurs as a result of the body’s immune system attacking the heart. The disease is caused by a bacterial infection, and if left untreated, it can lead to heart complications and even death.

Rheumatic fever often affects children and teenagers, and it can be a serious health threat if not diagnosed and treated early. In this article, we will look at the link between rheumatic fever and heart complications in more detail.

What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that occurs after an infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria. The bacteria cause a sore throat or skin infection, which if left untreated, can lead to rheumatic fever.

The disease is more common in children and young adults, and it can lead to heart complications if not treated properly.

What are the Symptoms of Rheumatic Fever?

There are a number of different symptoms that can occur with rheumatic fever. These include:.

Fever
Joint Pain
Swollen Joints
Redness or Rash on the Skin
Shortness of Breath
Weakness or Fatigue
Chest Pain
Heart Murmur

If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent heart complications and other serious complications of rheumatic fever.

What are the Heart Complications of Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever can cause a number of different heart complications, including:.

Valve Damage: Rheumatic fever can cause damage to the heart valves, which can lead to problems with blood flow through the heart.
Heart Failure: If the damage to the heart valves is severe enough, it can lead to heart failure.
Arrhythmia: Rheumatic fever can cause problems with the heart rhythm, which can lead to an irregular heartbeat.
Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart, which can occur as a result of damage from rheumatic fever.

These heart complications can be serious and require medical treatment. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

How is Rheumatic Fever Diagnosed?

Rheumatic fever can be diagnosed through a number of different tests. These may include:.

Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify markers of inflammation and infection.
Throat Swab: A swab of the throat can help identify the presence of group A Streptococcus bacteria.
Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that can help visualize the heart and identify any structural or functional abnormalities.
Electrocardiogram: An electrocardiogram is a test that can help identify any abnormalities in the heart’s rhythm.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or your child experience any symptoms of rheumatic fever. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent heart complications and other serious complications of the disease.

How is Rheumatic Fever Treated?

Rheumatic fever is treated with antibiotics to help clear the infection and reduce inflammation. In some cases, other medications may be necessary to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve. Failure to complete the course of antibiotics can lead to recurrence of the infection and the development of more serious complications.

Preventing Rheumatic Fever and Heart Complications

The best way to prevent rheumatic fever and heart complications is to practice good hygiene and seek prompt treatment for any sore throat or skin infections. Other ways to reduce the risk of rheumatic fever include:.

Getting Vaccinated: Vaccines are available for some strains of Streptococcus bacteria, which can help prevent infection.
Treating Sore Throats: If you or your child experience a sore throat, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can help prevent rheumatic fever.
Controlling Skin Infections: Skin infections should be treated promptly to prevent the development of rheumatic fever.
Following Up with Doctors: If you or your child has been diagnosed with rheumatic fever, it is important to follow up with doctors regularly to monitor for heart complications and ensure proper treatment.

Conclusion

Rheumatic fever is a serious disease that can lead to heart complications if not diagnosed and treated early. If you or your child experience any symptoms of rheumatic fever, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent heart complications and other serious complications of the disease.