Rheumatic Heart Disease
Rheumatic Heart Disease Causes
This permanent heart damage is caused by damaged heart valves where it fails to open and close properly. The damage begins with a strep throat caused by a type of bacteria called streptococcus A bacteria.
Rheumatic Heart Disease Definition
Rheumatic Heart Disease pertains to a complication of rheumatic fever. This disease damages the entire heart and its membranes. It is a permanent damage to the heart due to a damaged heart valve. This disease used to be a serious form of heart disease for children and adolescents.
Rheumatic Heart Disease Diagnosis
Doctors may base its diagnosis on the patient's overall health and medical history, the extent of the disease and the patient's tolerance to medication and other procedures.
Rheumatic Heart Disease Symptoms and Signs
Indicators of this heart disorder varies. Sometimes, damage is not noticed right away. The more common symptoms of this condition are: breathlessness, fatigue, palpitations, chest pain, and fainting attacks. Fever, swollen and extremely painful joints (knees, ankles, elbows, or wrists in particular), nodules over swollen joints, red and lattice-like rash, usually on the chest, back, and abdomen and uncontrolled movements of arms, legs, or facial muscles can also be experienced.
Rheumatic Heart Disease Treatment
Medication can be given to treat this heart condition. Surgery is also available as an option by replacing the damaged valve or valves.