Rheumatic Heart Disease Symptoms And What You Need To Know

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) often presents with subtle symptoms in its early stages, which can easily be overlooked. One of the most common early signs is palpitations or shortness of breath during physical activity. As the condition progresses without treatment, these symptoms tend to worsen, leading to more severe breathlessness even after mild exertion.

Advanced Symptoms Of Rheumatic Heart Disease

In more advanced stages, patients may begin to experience hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, which is a concerning indicator of worsening heart function. When heart failure or cardiac insufficiency develops, fluid retention becomes more apparent, often resulting in swelling of the lower extremities and eventually generalized edema throughout the body.

Severe Cases And Physical Limitations

For individuals with severe rheumatic heart disease, lying flat can become extremely uncomfortable or even dangerous. These patients often report significant difficulty breathing when reclining, a condition known as orthopnea, which forces them to sleep in a semi-upright position for comfort and easier breathing.

Understanding The Causes And Risk Factors

It's important to note that rheumatic heart disease is not contagious nor is it genetically inherited. Rather, it stems from complications related to untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal infections, particularly rheumatic fever. These infections can lead to permanent damage to the heart valves, which in turn affects the heart's ability to function properly.

Early detection and treatment of strep infections are crucial in preventing the development of rheumatic heart disease. If you or someone you know experiences unexplained shortness of breath, swelling, or breathing difficulties, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly.