What are the long-term complications of rheumatic fever. How does rheumatic fever affect the heart. Can rheumatic fever lead to permanent heart damage. What are the symptoms of rheumatic heart disease. How is rheumatic heart disease diagnosed and treated.

Understanding Rheumatic Fever and Its Impact on the Heart

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory condition that can have severe long-term consequences, particularly on the heart. This disease, triggered by untreated streptococcal bacterial infections, can lead to a range of complications affecting various parts of the body. However, its impact on the heart is particularly concerning, often resulting in rheumatic heart disease.

Rheumatic heart disease encompasses a group of acute and chronic heart disorders caused by rheumatic fever. It typically manifests 10-20 years after the initial illness, although not everyone who experiences rheumatic fever will develop this condition. The disease can affect multiple parts of the heart, including the outer sac (pericardium), inner lining (endocardium), and valves.

Common Heart Problems Associated with Rheumatic Fever

• Valvular heart disease
• Pericarditis
• Endocarditis
• Heart block

Among these, valvular heart disease is the most prevalent form of rheumatic heart disease. It may take several years for valve damage to develop or for symptoms to appear following an episode of rheumatic fever.

The Impact of Rheumatic Fever on Heart Valves

While rheumatic fever can affect any heart valve, it most commonly targets the mitral valve, located between the two chambers on the left side of the heart. This damage can result in various valve-related issues:

• Valve stenosis: A narrowing of the valve that restricts blood flow
• Valve regurgitation: A condition where blood leaks backward through the valve instead of flowing in its usual direction
• Heart muscle damage: The inflammation caused by rheumatic fever can directly harm the heart muscle, affecting its ability to pump blood effectively

Over time, these valve disorders may progress to more severe conditions such as atrial fibrillation or heart failure.

Risk Factors for Rheumatic Fever and Heart Disease

While rheumatic fever is relatively rare in developed countries, certain populations face a higher risk. A Canadian study revealed that individuals living in specific Indigenous communities have an increased likelihood of contracting rheumatic fever. Additionally, people who have immigrated from countries where rheumatic fever is more prevalent are at higher risk.

Other risk factors include:

• History of repeated strep infections
• Age: Most common between 5 and 15 years old
• Lack of access to proper healthcare or antibiotic treatment

Approximately 60% of individuals who experience rheumatic fever go on to develop rheumatic heart disease. It’s crucial to note that timely antibiotic treatment can prevent streptococcal infections from progressing to rheumatic fever.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Rheumatic Fever and Heart Valve Problems

Identifying the symptoms of rheumatic fever and its cardiac complications is essential for early intervention and treatment. The symptoms of rheumatic fever can vary but often include:

• Fever
• Painful, red, warm, and swollen joints
• Migrating pain from joint to joint
• Small, painless bumps beneath the skin
• Chest pain
• Heart murmur
• Painless rash with a jagged edge (erythema marginatum)
• Jerky movements and unusual behaviors

Heart valve problems, often resulting from rheumatic heart disease, may present with the following symptoms:

• Chest discomfort or pain
• Irregular or rapid heartbeats (heart palpitations)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Light-headedness, dizziness, or near fainting
• Swelling of the stomach, feet, or ankles

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially chest pain, fainting, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Rheumatic Heart Disease

Diagnosing rheumatic heart disease involves a comprehensive approach, as there is no single specific test for this condition. The process typically includes:

1. Review of symptoms and medical history
2. Complete physical examination
3. Tests to establish a recent strep infection (throat culture or blood test for strep antibodies)
4. Heart tests to check for damage:
   • Echocardiogram
   • Chest X-ray

How do doctors differentiate between rheumatic heart disease and other heart conditions? The combination of a history of strep infection, specific symptoms, and characteristic heart valve changes on echocardiogram helps distinguish rheumatic heart disease from other cardiac issues.

Treatment Approaches for Rheumatic Fever and Heart Disease

The treatment of rheumatic fever and its cardiac complications focuses on preventing further damage and managing existing symptoms. Key elements of the treatment plan may include:

• Long-term antibiotic therapy: Children or young adults with heart damage from rheumatic fever may need to take daily antibiotics until they are 25 to 30 years old. This helps prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever and development of infective endocarditis.
• Tailored treatment based on heart damage: The specific approach will depend on the type and extent of heart damage.
• Management of symptoms: This may involve medications to control heart rate, reduce inflammation, or manage fluid buildup.
• Regular monitoring: Frequent check-ups and echocardiograms to track the progression of heart valve damage.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

Prevention Strategies and Long-Term Outlook

Preventing rheumatic fever and its cardiac complications is crucial. Key preventive measures include:

• Prompt treatment of strep throat infections with appropriate antibiotics
• Regular medical check-ups, especially for those at higher risk
• Maintaining good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of strep infections
• Raising awareness about the importance of treating strep infections, particularly in high-risk communities

What is the long-term prognosis for individuals with rheumatic heart disease? The outlook varies depending on the severity of heart damage and how early the condition is detected and treated. With proper management, many people with rheumatic heart disease can lead full, active lives. However, severe cases may require ongoing medical care and potentially heart valve surgery.

Global Impact and Future Directions in Rheumatic Fever Research

While rheumatic fever has become rare in many developed countries, it remains a significant health concern in certain parts of the world. Ongoing research aims to:

• Develop more effective prevention strategies, particularly for high-risk populations
• Improve early detection methods for rheumatic heart disease
• Explore new treatment options to prevent or reverse heart valve damage
• Investigate potential genetic factors that may increase susceptibility to rheumatic fever

How can global efforts help reduce the burden of rheumatic fever and its complications? International collaboration, improved access to healthcare in underserved areas, and continued research into prevention and treatment strategies are key to addressing this global health challenge.

Understanding the long-term effects of rheumatic fever, particularly its impact on heart health, is crucial for effective management and prevention. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking prompt treatment for strep infections, and following through with long-term care plans, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing severe cardiac complications. As research continues to advance, there is hope for improved outcomes and potentially new ways to prevent and treat rheumatic heart disease.

Rheumatic heart disease | Heart and Stroke Foundation

Heart

Jump to

What is rheumatic fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can be triggered by a streptococcal bacterial infection. It usually starts out as a strep throat infection or scarlet fever that hasn’t been treated with antibiotics. Rheumatic fever can cause inflammation of connective tissues throughout the body including the heart, joints, brain or skin.

What is rheumatic heart disease?

Rheumatic heart disease describes a group of short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) heart disorders that are caused by rheumatic fever. It usually occurs 10-20 years after the initial illness. Not everyone with rheumatic fever will go on to develop rheumatic heart disease.

Types of rheumatic heart disease

Every part of the heart may be damaged by inflammation caused by rheumatic fever. That includes the outer sac (pericardium), the inner lining (endocardium) and the valves.

Some heart problems linked to rheumatic fever are:

• valvular heart disease
• pericarditis
• endocarditis
• heart block

The most common form of rheumatic heart disease affects the heart valves. It may take several years after an episode of rheumatic fever for valve damage to develop or symptoms to appear.

Although rheumatic fever can affect any heart valve, it most commonly affects the mitral valve which lies between the two chambers of the left side of the heart. The damage can cause valve stenosis, valve regurgitation and/or damage to the heart muscle.

• Valve stenosis occurs when there is narrowing of a valve, which restricts blood flow.
• Valve regurgitation is when blood leaks backward through a valve, instead of following its usual direction.
• The inflammation of rheumatic fever can damage the heart muscle itself. The damage can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

In time, valve disorders may lead to atrial fibrillation or heart failure. 

Who is at risk?

Rheumatic fever is rare in developed countries, but one Canadian study showed that people living in certain Indigenous communities have a higher risk of contracting rheumatic fever. There is also a higher risk for people who have immigrated from countries where rheumatic fever is more common. People who have had repeated strep infections are also at a higher risk of developing rheumatic heart disease.

People of any age can experience a short bout of rheumatic fever, but it is most common between the ages of 5 and 15. Any child with a persistent sore throat should have a throat culture to check for strep infection.

About 60% of people with rheumatic fever go on to develop rheumatic heart disease. Antibiotics can prevent streptococcal infection from developing into rheumatic fever.

Symptoms

1. The symptoms of rheumatic fever include:

• fever
• painful joints
• migrating pain from joint to joint
• red, warm, swollen joints
• small, painless bumps beneath the skin
• chest pain
• heart murmur
• painless rash with a jagged edge (erythema marginatum)
• jerky movements
• unusual behaviours accompanying the movements

2. The symptoms of heart valve problems – which are often the result of rheumatic heart disease – can include:

• chest discomfort or pain
• irregular or rapid heartbeats (heart palpitations)
• shortness of breath
• fatigue or weakness
• light-headedness, dizziness or near fainting
• swelling of the stomach, feet, or ankles

If you have one or more of these symptoms, see your doctor. Get immediate medical help if you experience chest pain, fainting or difficulty breathing.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will diagnose rheumatic heart disease after reviewing your symptoms (or your child’s, if your child is ill), taking a medical history and giving you a complete physical exam.

There is no specific test for rheumatic heart disease. The first step will be to establish if you have had a strep infection. A throat culture and/or a blood test might be able to find strep antibodies if the infection was recent. If too much time has passed, the antibodies will be gone and the doctor will rely on your memory of recent illnesses.

Tests that will check your heart for damage include:

• echocardiogram
• chest X-ray

Treatment

Children or young adults with heart damage from rheumatic fever may need to take daily antibiotics until they are 25 to 30 years old. This helps to prevent another bout of rheumatic fever and avoid the development of infective endocarditis – an infection of the heart valves or lining of the heart.

Additional treatment will depend on the type of damage to your heart. You and your doctor will discuss treatment options and decide which is best for you and your circumstances.

You can lower your risk of developing other heart diseases and stroke by knowing and controlling your blood pressure, diabetes and blood cholesterol. It is also important to lead a healthy lifestyle.

• Be smoke-free.
• Be more active.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet – there are some specific diets you can follow that have been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Aim for a healthy weight.
• Drink less alcohol.
• Manage stress.

Talk to your doctor about the lifestyle changes that will benefit you the most.

Living with rheumatic heart disease

It’s normal to feel worried or afraid after a diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease. Find someone you can turn to for emotional support like a family member, friend, doctor, mental health worker or support group. Talking about your challenges and feelings could be an important part of your journey to recovery.

• The recovery and support section is full of practical advice and tips to support you on your recovery journey.
• Find peer support resources here.
• Download or order our free book Living Well with Heart Disease.
• Join Heart & Stroke’s Community of Survivors or Care Supporters’ Community support groups.
• Sign up for the Heart & Stroke recovery newsletter. Get the latest research news and information, with tips and strategies to help you manage your recovery. 

Related information

To find useful services to help you on your journey with heart disease, see our services and resources listing.

Check out our support & recovery section

Go to it now

Rheumatic Fever | The Texas Heart Institute

Find a Doctor


Make an Appointment

Before antibiotic medicines became widely used, rheumatic fever was the single biggest cause of valve disease

En español

Rheumatic fever is a complication of untreated strep throat (caused by a group A streptococcal infection).

Rheumatic fever can damage body tissues by causing them to swell, but its greatest danger lies in the damage it can do to your heart. More than half of the time, rheumatic fever leads to scarring of the heart’s valves. This scarring can narrow the valve and make it harder for the valve to open or close properly, causing your heart to work harder pumping blood to the rest of your body. This valve damage can lead to a condition called rheumatic heart disease, which, in time, can lead to congestive heart failure.

What causes rheumatic fever?

Rheumatic fever is not an infection itself, but rather the result of an untreated strep infection. When your body senses the strep infection, it sends antibodies to fight it. Sometimes, these antibodies attack the tissues of your joints or heart instead. If the antibodies attack your heart, they can cause your heart valves to swell, which can lead to scarring of the valve “doors” (called leaflets or cusps).

Who is at risk for this fever?

Fewer than 0.3% of people who have strep throat also get rheumatic fever. This fever is most common among children aged 5 to 15, but adults may have the condition as well. Doctors think that a weakened immune system may make some people more likely to get rheumatic fever. And, although antibiotic medicines have reduced the number of cases of the fever in developed countries, there are still thousands of reported cases.

What are the symptoms of rheumatic fever and how is it diagnosed?

Symptoms of rheumatic fever usually begin 1 to 6 weeks after you have had a strep infection. They are

• Fever
• Joint pain or swelling in your wrists, elbows, knees, or ankles
• Small bumps under the skin over your elbows or knees (called nodules)
• A raised, red rash on your chest, back, or stomach
• Stomach pain or feeling less hungry
• Weakness, shortness of breath, or feeling very tired

Your doctor will begin by doing a throat culture to find out if you have a strep infection.

Then, your doctor will use a stethoscope to listen to your heart. He or she will also look for nodules on your joints. Sometimes, blood tests, chest x-rays, or an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) may be needed for a more definite diagnosis.

How is this fever treated?

Rheumatic fever must be treated right away. If you have a sore throat that lasts longer than 3 days, or if you have a fever and headache along with your sore throat, you should see your doctor for a throat culture. Even if you do not have a sore throat but have a fever and a skin rash, this could also mean a strep infection, and you should get tested. Remember rheumatic fever can result from an untreated strep infection, so it is very important to treat the infection before it leads to a worse condition.

Lifestyle Changes

If this type of fever has led to rheumatic heart disease or damage to your heart valves, your doctor may recommend that you take antibiotic medicines continuously for many years. Some patients with rheumatic fever need to take antibiotics for the rest of their lives. In any case, you should always tell your doctor or dentist about your history of rheumatic fever before you have a surgical or dental procedure. Such procedures may cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and infect your heart valves.

Medicines

If your doctor tells you that you have a strep infection, he or she will prescribe an antibiotic medicine. It is important that you take the medicine when and how your doctor tells you. Do not stop taking the medicine just because you start to feel better. Many people find that they feel better after a couple of days of therapy, so they stop taking their medicine. Even if your sore throat does not come back, without the antibiotics in your bloodstream, the streptococcal bacteria can still multiply and affect your heart and other organs.

If your strep infection leads to rheumatic fever, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines or aspirin to reduce the swelling in your body’s tissues. Sometimes, patients need to take a diuretic to help rid their body of excess water and salt. How long you take them depends on how old you are, how many attacks you have had, and how severe your symptoms are.

Surgical Procedures

In some patients, rheumatic fever damages a heart valve. In these cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair or replace the damaged valve.

Find a Doctor


Make an Appointment

Related Links

Article Info

Rheumatic fever – signs, symptoms, who treats, who treats

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop if scarlet fever or any other infection that affects the throat is left untreated. Scarlet fever is caused by an infection due to exposure to streptococcus bacteria. Rheumatic fever most commonly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15. The condition can lead to permanent damage to the heart, including damage to the heart valves and heart failure. Treatment can relieve pain, reduce damage from inflammation, and prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever.

Symptoms of rheumatic fever

Symptoms of rheumatic fever result from inflammation of the heart, joints, skin or central nervous system. Symptoms may change during the illness. The onset of rheumatic fever usually occurs about 2 to 4 weeks after a strep throat infection. Symptoms of rheumatic fever may include:

• Fever
• Painful and tender joints – most commonly in knees, ankles, elbows and wrists
• Pain in one joint that may migrate to another joint
• Reddened, hot or swollen joints
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Flat or slightly raised, painless rash with irregular borders
• Heart murmur
• Uncontrolled body movements (Sydenham chorea) – most often in the arms, legs and face
• Outbursts of unusual behavior such as crying or inappropriate laughter
• Small, painless bumps under the skin.

Seek immediate medical attention if the following symptoms appear together:

• Sudden sore throat
• Prolonged pain when swallowing
• Fever
• Headache
• Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Proper treatment of the throat can prevent rheumatic fever.

Causes of rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever may occur after a throat infection from group A streptococcus bacteria. Group A streptococcal infections of the skin or other parts of the body rarely cause rheumatic fever.

The relationship between exposure to streptococcus and rheumatic fever is unclear. The influence of bacteria is suspected, which causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues.

The body’s immune system usually targets infections. In rheumatic fever, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, especially in the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system. This abnormal reaction of the immune system leads to tissue swelling and inflammation.

If streptococcal infection or scarlet fever is treated promptly with antibiotics, rheumatic fever usually does not develop.

Risk factors

Factors that may increase the risk of rheumatic fever:

• Genetic abnormalities. Some patients have one or more genes that may increase the chance of developing rheumatic fever
• A specific type of streptococcus bacteria. Certain strains of streptococcal bacteria are more likely to cause rheumatic fever
• Environmental factors. The higher risk of rheumatic fever is due to poor sanitation and other factors that can lead to easy spread of streptococcus in large crowds.

Complications

Inflammation caused by rheumatic fever can last from several weeks to several months. In some patients, inflammation causes long-term complications.

One of the complications of rheumatic fever is permanent damage to the heart (rheumatic heart disease). Rheumatic heart disease usually occurs years or decades after the initial disease.

However, severe rheumatic fever can begin to damage the heart valves during the active infectious phase. Damage most often occurs to the valve between the two left chambers of the heart (mitral valve), but other valves can also be affected.

Rheumatic fever can cause the following types of heart damage:

• Narrowing of the heart valve (valve stenosis), which reduces blood flow
• Heart valve regurgitation. In this state, blood circulates backwards through valve
• Damage to the heart muscle. The inflammation associated with rheumatic fever can weaken the heart muscle, affecting its function.
• Damage to the heart valves or other heart tissues can lead to irregular, erratic heartbeats (atrial fibrillation) or heart failure later in life.

How a doctor diagnoses rheumatic fever

There is no specific study for rheumatic fever. Diagnosis of rheumatic fever is based on the medical history, physical examination, and comprehensive investigations that include:

• Blood tests. Blood tests may be performed to look for markers of inflammation in the blood. Analyzes include the presence of C-reactive protein and the rate of erythrocyte sedimentation. Sometimes a blood test is done that can detect antibodies to streptococcus bacteria in the blood, as the actual bacteria may no longer be found in throat tissue or blood
• Electrocardiogram (ECG). The study captures the electrical activity of the heart and allows you to diagnose irregular heartbeat and enlarged heart tissue
• Ultrasound of the heart. Sound waves are used to visualize heart tissue in motion. The procedure demonstrates the circulation of blood through the heart and heart valves.

The best doctors of St. Petersburg

Abdrakhmanova Sultanpashsha

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Enroll

Ablikova Marina Petrovna

Rating: 4.6 / 5

Enroll

Aibash Faisal

Rating: 4.8 / 5

Enroll

Baydina Valentina Alexandrovna

Rating: 4. 8 / 5

Enroll

Bezrukov Yuri Nikolaevich

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Enroll

Bernhardt Edward Robertovich

Rating: 4.8 / 5

Enroll

Share:

Scientific sources:

1. Andreeva D.V. Clinical and immunological approaches to the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease: Dis. Candidate of Medical Sciences. Ivanovo, 1999. – 109 p.
2. Anokhin V.N. Diagnostic criteria for rheumatic fever, analysis and evaluation of their significance: Sat. scientific work: “Infection and rheumatic diseases”, ed. Anokhina V.N. M., 1994. – S. 5-20.
3. Belov B.S. Acute rheumatic fever // Russian medical journal. 1998. – T. 6.-No. 18.-S. 1199-1204.
4. Dzhusenova B.S., Kotelnikova G.P., Nesterova N.I., Nasonova V.A. Results of a retrospective examination of patients with acute rheumatic fever // Ter.arch. 1992. – No. 5. – S. 88-93.
5. Nasonova V.A. Rheumatic fever (rheumatism) in the XX century // Ter. arch. 1998. – No. 9. – S. 41 -44.

Useful information

Infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis is a viral disease that spreads through saliva. Especially often mononucleosis develops in children and adolescents.

read more +

Tumor of the larynx

What should be done to diagnose and treat a tumor of the larynx? To solve this problem, the first step for the patient is to make an appointment with an otolaryngologist. After the initial examination, the doctor may prescribe additional studies:

Consultation with an oncologist
Ultrasound of the soft tissues of the neck
MRI of soft tissues of the neck with contrast
CT of the throat and larynx with contrast.

read more +

Sore throat

What should be done to diagnose and treat a sore throat? To solve this problem, the first step for the patient is to make an appointment with an otolaryngologist, a therapist. After the initial examination, the doctor may prescribe additional studies:

Pharyngoscopy
CT of the throat and larynx
MRI of the soft tissues of the neck
Ultrasound of the thyroid gland.

read more +

Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic fever: symptoms, treatment, prevention

Content

• 1 Acute rheumatic fever: symptoms, causes and treatment
  • 1.1 Acute inflammation and treatment of rheumatic diseases:

  900 09 1.2 Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism: Definition and symptoms

  • 1.2.1 Definition
  • 1.2.2 Symptoms
  • 1.3 Causes of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism
  • 1.4 Diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic fever
    • 1.4.1 History and general examination
    • 1.4.2 Laboratory and instrumental examinations
    • 1.4.3 ECG and ECHOCG
    • 1.4. 4 Rheumatological examination
  • 1.5 Treatment of rheumatism
    • 1.5.1 Drug therapy
    • 1.5.2 Physiotherapy and massage
    • 1.5.3 Surgical treatment
  • 1.6 Treatment of Acute Rheumatic Fever in Children: Features
    • 1.6.1 Diagnosis
    • 1. 6.2 Features of the treatment of ARF in children
    • 1.6.3 Comprehensive rehabilitation
  • 1.7 Prevention of rheumatism
    • 1.7.1 Correct nutrition
    • 1.7.2 Regular physical activity
    • 1.7.3 Avoid stressful situations
    • 1.7.4 Smoking cessation and moderate alcohol consumption
    • 1.7.5 Regular health check-ups
  • 1.8 Limitations and complications in treatment
  • 1.9 Rheumatism and nutrition
    • 1.9.1 The role of nutrition in the prevention of rheumatism
    • 1.9.2 Diet in rheumatism
    • 1.9.2 9.3 Dietary advice for acute rheumatic fever
  • 1.10 Alternative treatments for rheumatism
  • 1.11 Treatment effect and prognosis
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of Acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism?
      • 1.13.0.2 What are the main treatments for Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatism?
      • 1. 13.0.3 Can acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism be completely cured?
      • 1.13.0.4 How to prevent Acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism?
      • 1.13.0.5 How dangerous is rheumatism and acute rheumatic fevers?
      • 1.13.0.6 How long does it take to treat Acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism?

Acute rheumatic fever is a serious illness that can lead to the development of rheumatism. In the article we will talk about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Be attentive to your health and do not forget the prevention of rheumatic diseases!

Rheumatism is a disease that causes inflammation of the connective tissues and the heart. One of the most well-known types of rheumatism is acute rheumatic fever (ARF), which can occur after infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.

This is a disease that occurs in children and young people between 5 and 15 years of age. It presents with a range of symptoms, including fever, loss of appetite, joint pain, chest congestion, and small pitch. With a long course of the disease, ARF can even lead to heart disease and rheumatism.

Treatment of ARF and rheumatism is usually based on the use of antibiotics and drugs to suppress the possibility of developing heart disease. However, preventing the development of the ARF syndrome can occur through daily fist care, the urge in people with ARF to be patient and resourceful to find a cure.

ARF and rheumatism are serious illnesses because they affect the heart and connective tissues of the body. Medical treatment is designed to quickly relieve symptoms and prevent the development of serious consequences.

Acute inflammation and treatment of rheumatic diseases:

Acute rheumatic fever is a serious disease that can develop in children after infectious diseases.

Manifestations of this disease: fever, joint pain, swelling, heart murmur, changes in blood counts.

Treatment for includes antibiotics to fight infection, pain and swelling, and stimulants to remove toxins from the body.

Rheumatism is a connective tissue disorder considered as an autoimmune disease.

Symptoms of rheumatism: joint pain, fever, swelling, limited joint mobility, fatigue and general malaise.

Treatment of rheumatism includes complex therapy aimed at eliminating the disease and preventing its progression. Treatment is performed by a rheumatologist and may include medications, physiotherapy, massage, and physical therapy.

• Prevention of rheumatic diseases includes general measures aimed at strengthening health and immunity: proper nutrition, regular exercise, good sleep and the rejection of bad habits.
• It is also important to carry out regular medical examinations and treatment of all diseases in time, including infectious ones, which can cause the development of acute rheumatic fever.

Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism: Definition and symptoms

Definition

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatism is a systemic disease that affects the connective tissues and the heart valve.

ARF may occur after infection with group A streptococci. Infection can occur at any time of the year, but most often in winter and spring.

Symptoms

• High body temperature that lasts for several days.
• Pain in the joints, which manifests itself in the form of swelling and redness.
• Pain in the abdomen, head, throat or chest.
• Skin rash.
• Heart problems such as short-term shortness of breath, rapid pulse and chest pain.

Causes of Ostratic Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatism

Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism are inflammatory diseases that can be caused by several causes.

• Infectious diseases. Acute rheumatic fever is based on an infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract caused by group A streptococcus bacteria.
• Hereditary predisposition. Rheumatoid arthritis can be a hereditary disease that is inherited from parents to children.
• Weakened immunity. Immunodeficiency states can contribute to the occurrence of rheumatic diseases, since the body’s defenses are weakened.
• Damage to the joints. Damage to the joints during injuries and fractures can lead to the development of rheumatic diseases.

Acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism are serious diseases that require complex treatment and prevention. The causes of their occurrence can be varied, so it is important to treat the disease appropriately and carry out prevention.

Diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism

History and general examination

The initial diagnosis of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and rheumatism is based on a careful history and general examination of the patient. It is important to inquire about the presence of symptoms such as joint pain, fever, redness of the skin, and abnormal heart rhythms. A general examination will reveal signs of inflammation and determine joint damage.

Laboratory and instrumental tests

Laboratory and instrumental tests will help confirm the diagnosis of ARF and rheumatism. In the blood, an increase in the level of C-reactive protein, the presence of antibodies to streptococci and other infectious agents are detected.

ECG and ECHOCG

ECG and ECHOCG are performed to detect cardiac pathology. An ECG helps to identify abnormal heart rhythms, and an echocardiogram helps to identify valve damage.

Rheumatological examination

A rheumatological consultation may be necessary to carefully identify symptoms and prescribe the correct treatment for ARF and rheumatism. The rheumatologist may order additional tests, such as x-rays of the joints or magnetic resonance imaging.

Treatment of rheumatism

Drug therapy

Drug therapy is most effective in the treatment of rheumatism. It is aimed at reducing pain, inflammation and increasing joint mobility. The main drug are NSAIDs, which suppress severe inflammation. In the case of uncontrolled pain syndrome, the use of drugs for pain relief and muscle relaxants is required.

Physiotherapy and massage

Physiotherapy helps to relieve pain and inflammation in the joints, improve blood circulation, increase joint mobility and flexibility. This may include ultrasound therapy, electrical stimulation, magnetic therapy, diadynamic therapy, and many others.

Massage is a complementary technique used in conjunction with physiotherapy. It is aimed at improving blood circulation, increasing flexibility and developing muscles around the joints. This can help reduce pain and improve the mobility of diseased joints.

Surgery

Surgery may be required for severe joint deformities that cannot be corrected conservatively. For example, surgery on the knee joint is often required to correct deformities and restore its functionality. Surgical methods can help repair diseased joints, but are not always the best solution and should only be used in extreme cases.

Treatment of Acute Rheumatic Fever in Children: Features

Diagnosis

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is a serious disease that mainly affects children between 5 and 15 years of age. To establish a diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct a medical examination, which includes blood tests for the presence of specific antibodies and other instrumental and laboratory studies.

Peculiarities of treatment of ARF in children

Treatment of ARF in children is lengthy and may take several months to a year. The main method of treatment is antibiotic therapy to combat the causative agent of the disease, as well as the appointment of anti-inflammatory drugs.

To speed up the recovery process in children, it is recommended to stay in bed and limit physical activity. In addition, children are prescribed a diet with limited salt and fatty foods.

Comprehensive rehabilitation

After the treatment, it is necessary to carry out regular medical supervision and rehabilitation measures aimed at restoring the general condition of the body and preventing relapses. During this period, physiotherapy, water procedures and therapeutic exercises are recommended.

Prevention of rheumatism

Proper nutrition

Proper nutrition is one of the important factors in the prevention of rheumatism. It is necessary to monitor the balance of consumed proteins, carbohydrates and fats, as well as to consume enough vitamins and minerals.

Regular exercise

Regular exercise can help prevent rheumatism. Choose sports such as swimming, yoga, gymnastics, running or walking.

Avoid stressful situations

Stress can exacerbate rheumatic diseases, so try to avoid stressful situations and learn how to cope with them.

Smoking cessation and moderate alcohol consumption

Smoking and alcohol consumption increase the risk of rheumatism. Therefore, for prevention, you should stop smoking and consume alcoholic beverages in moderation.

Regular medical check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can help detect and prevent rheumatic diseases.

Restrictions and complications in treatment

Restrictions: Certain restrictions must be observed in the treatment of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism. Firstly, patients are not recommended to get involved in physical exercises, which can cause an increase in pain symptoms. Secondly, it is necessary to limit the consumption of salt and honey, include more fresh vegetables and fruits in the diet. Thirdly, patients are not recommended to drink alcohol and smoke.
It is important to remember that treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a physician and the patient should follow his recommendations.

Complications: Late or incomplete treatment of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism can lead to various complications. Heart problems are among the most serious complications, as rheumatism can cause damage to the heart valves, which can lead to heart failure. In addition, rheumatism can cause problems with the kidneys, pancreas, joints, and nervous system.
At the first sign of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism, you should immediately consult a doctor in order to prevent possible complications and conduct timely treatment.

• Do not exercise
• Limit salt and honey
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables
• Do not drink alcohol or smoke
• Follow medical advice under medical supervision

90 009 Heart problems
1. Kidney problems
2. Pancreatic problems
3. Joint problems
4. Nervous system problems

Rheumatism and nutrition

The role of nutrition in the prevention of rheumatism

Proper nutrition is an important aspect of the prevention of rheumatism. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The menu should contain foods containing vitamin C, E and A. Also valuable sources are fruits and vegetables rich in fiber.

Low-fat foods are preferred as they help reduce inflammation in the body. You should limit your intake of red meat and fried foods, as they can contribute to joint deterioration.

Diet for rheumatism

When treating rheumatism, it is important to follow the diet. It is recommended to eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and flax seeds. It is also beneficial to consume turmeric, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, it is worth limiting the intake of salt, starch and sugar, as they contribute to inflammation in the body. You should also avoid foods that can cause an allergic reaction, such as milk, eggs, gluten, and soy.

Dietary advice for acute rheumatic fever

Avoid overeating and eating fatty, salty, sweet, and fried foods, as these can aggravate joints and increase body temperature. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals is recommended, which can boost immunity.

It is also necessary to drink plenty of pure water and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can cause dehydration and increase inflammation.

Alternative treatments for rheumatism

There are now many alternative treatments for rheumatism that help improve the quality of life for patients. Some of the most popular methods are herbal medicine and acupuncture.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese method of treatment, which consists in influencing biologically active points on the body with the help of thin needles. Acupuncture helps improve blood circulation and metabolism in the body, and reduces inflammation. This method has no serious side effects and is often used to treat rheumatism.

• Herbal tea – based on herbal preparations, it can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Massage – helps to improve blood circulation and metabolism, as well as reduce pain in muscles and joints.
• Yoga – Helps improve joint flexibility and mobility, as well as strengthen muscles and tendons.

It should be remembered that alternative methods of treatment are not a panacea and cannot replace the classical treatment, but their use in conjunction with it can significantly improve the patient’s condition.

Effect of treatment and prognosis

With timely and correct treatment, acute rheumatic fever and rheumatism can be stopped and controlled. However, if the treatment is started too late or done incorrectly, they can lead to serious complications such as damage to the heart and joints.

A good prognosis depends on many factors, including the stage of the disease, the presence of significant changes in the joints and other organs, and the patient’s compliance with the treatment and prevention measures taken. Patients who are systematically evaluated and treated can expect to successfully control symptoms and prevent complications in the long term.

In general, the correct treatment and prevention of acute rheumatic diseases play a crucial role in maintaining the health and improving the quality of life of patients. Medical care, including preventive measures and symptom control, should be carried out under the supervision of competent professionals in order to achieve the best treatment results and prognosis.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatism?

Acute rheumatic fevers may present with high fever and joint pain, especially in the knees and elbows. Rheumatism can be manifested by swelling and pain in the joints, limited movement and morning stiffness. There may also be fatigue, heart problems, weight loss, anemia.

What are the main treatments for Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatism?

Treatment is with anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic drugs, as well as physiotherapy and massage. In difficult cases, surgery may be required. It is also important to strengthen the immune system and avoid stress on the affected joints.

Can acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism be completely cured?

Acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism can be completely cured if the treatment is started in time and the doctor’s recommendations are followed. However, if the treatment is not started on time or it is carried out incorrectly, serious complications and consequences are possible.

How to prevent Acute rheumatic fevers and rheumatism?

To prevent these diseases, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle: eat right, exercise regularly, avoid overwork and stress. It is also important to maintain hygiene, especially when visiting public places and in contact with sick people.

How dangerous is rheumatism and Acute rheumatic fevers?

Rheumatism and Acute rheumatic fevers can lead to serious complications. In different cases, damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, injuries of bones and joints is possible.