The Most Common Complications Associated with Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) can lead to several serious complications, often arising due to long-term damage to the heart valves caused by rheumatic fever. Understanding these complications is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Heart Failure

Heart failure is one of the most inevitable complications of rheumatic heart disease. It typically occurs due to stenosis or narrowing of the mitral or aortic valves, which restricts the flow of blood and forces the heart to work harder. Over time, this can cause the heart to enlarge and eventually fail to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the lower extremities.

Thromboembolism

Thromboembolism is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication of RHD. Mitral valve stenosis can lead to enlargement of the left atrium and the development of atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm that impairs the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This irregularity increases the risk of blood clot formation within the heart chambers. If a clot dislodges, it can travel to the brain and cause a stroke, or block blood flow in other arteries such as the renal, mesenteric, or peripheral arteries.

Other Potential Complications

Infective Endocarditis

Rheumatic heart disease also increases the risk of infective endocarditis, a dangerous infection of the heart valves or inner lining of the heart. Bacteria or other pathogens can accumulate on the damaged valves, leading to fever, fatigue, and more severe systemic symptoms.

Acute Pulmonary Edema

Acute pulmonary edema may occur, particularly in patients with advanced mitral stenosis. This condition results from a sudden buildup of fluid in the lungs due to increased pressure in the heart, causing severe shortness of breath and requiring urgent medical attention.

Arrhythmias

Cardiac arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation and other rhythm disturbances, are common in individuals with RHD. These irregular heartbeats can further worsen heart function and increase the risk of stroke or sudden cardiac events.