Rheumatic Heart Disease Symptoms and Treatment Options

Rheumatic heart disease typically occurs after a person contracts a streptococcal infection, which can then progress to affect the heart lining and damage the heart valves. In the early stages, patients may only exhibit symptoms of rheumatic fever, such as fever and joint pain. Over time, many individuals may experience no noticeable symptoms at all, making the condition difficult to detect in its initial phases.

Common Symptoms of Rheumatic Heart Disease

Once the disease progresses to a more advanced stage, clinical symptoms may begin to appear. These often include shortness of breath, chest tightness, and palpitations, which are signs of underlying heart dysfunction. Some patients may also suffer from chest pain or recurring episodes of fever, which should not be ignored as they can indicate worsening heart health.

Understanding Treatment Approaches

By the time rheumatic heart disease is diagnosed, there is often already some degree of heart function impairment. While active rheumatic fever symptoms may not always be present, if they are, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are typically used to manage the inflammation and control the disease activity.

Managing Heart Function

When there is no active rheumatic fever, the focus of treatment shifts to supporting heart function. This may involve the use of medications such as cardiac stimulants, diuretics, and vasodilators. Among these, diuretics are particularly effective in relieving symptoms caused by heart failure, helping to reduce fluid buildup and ease breathing difficulties.

When to Seek Medical Help

Patients should be vigilant about any signs of illness, especially fever. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure proper management of the condition. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are also important for long-term monitoring and care.