Acute Myocarditis: Understanding The Causes And Symptoms

Acute myocarditis is primarily caused by viral infections, although other pathogens such as bacteria, mycoplasma, and chlamydia can also lead to the condition. Among these, enteroviruses are the most common culprits in clinical cases of myocarditis.

Common Causes Of Acute Myocarditis

Viral infections, especially those involving the gastrointestinal tract, are often the starting point for developing acute myocarditis. Following the infection, the virus may spread to the heart muscle, causing inflammation and impairing cardiac function. In addition to viruses, bacterial infections and other microorganisms can also trigger an inflammatory response in the heart muscle.

Recognizing The Symptoms

Early Signs And Progression

Initially, patients may experience mild symptoms such as diarrhea, with about 3-5 bowel movements per day. Approximately two weeks after the initial symptoms, signs of heart involvement may appear, including palpitations, shortness of breath, and difficulty lying flat due to worsening cardiac function.

Diagnostic Indicators

Medical professionals typically use electrocardiograms (ECGs) and echocardiograms to assess heart function. These tests may reveal reduced myocardial contractility, atrioventricular block, or frequent premature beats, which are all indicative of viral myocarditis. Additionally, a chest CT scan, X-ray, or auscultation may detect lung crackles, further suggesting a decline in left ventricular function.