Rheumatic Heart Disease Symptoms And Their Progression

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) presents a wide range of symptoms depending on the severity, progression, and stage of the condition. In its early phases, individuals may experience no noticeable symptoms at all, making early detection challenging without proper medical screening.

Early Stage Symptoms

In the initial stages, rheumatic heart disease may not produce obvious symptoms. However, subtle signs such as mild fatigue or occasional heart palpitations may occur. These early indicators are often overlooked or mistaken for less serious health issues.

Progressive Symptoms And Complications

As the disease advances, more severe symptoms begin to emerge. These may include shortness of breath, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing—especially during physical activity or when lying down. In more severe cases, fluid buildup in the lungs can lead to pulmonary edema, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Systemic Effects Of Heart Failure

Heart failure associated with rheumatic heart disease can also cause congestion in other organs, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. This may result in symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and discomfort due to fluid retention and reduced blood flow.

Symptoms Related To Valve Damage

If the disease affects the aortic valve and leads to aortic stenosis, individuals may experience dizziness, fainting spells, and chest pain. These symptoms often worsen with exertion and can be warning signs of more serious cardiac events, including sudden cardiac death.

Atrial Fibrillation And Heart Rhythm Issues

Rheumatic heart disease can also lead to atrial fibrillation—an irregular and often rapid heart rate. This condition may cause palpitations, fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance. It also increases the risk of stroke due to the formation of blood clots in the heart.

Treatment Options For Advanced Stages

When rheumatic heart disease progresses to a critical stage, surgical intervention may become necessary. This can involve valve repair (valvuloplasty) or complete valve replacement to restore normal heart function and improve quality of life.