About Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever is caused by a bacterium called group A Streptococcus, which can lead to strep throat or scarlet fever. This bacterium triggers an inflammatory response in the body, causing widespread inflammation and leading to the symptoms of rheumatic fever.
Non-modifiable risk factors for rheumatic fever cannot be changed or controlled. These include:
- Family history: Certain genes can make individuals more susceptible to developing rheumatic fever.
- Type of strep bacteria present: Some strains of strep bacteria are more likely than others to lead to rheumatic fever.
Modifiable risk factors for rheumatic fever can be influenced or changed. These include:
- Environmental factors: Overcrowding, particularly in developing countries, can increase the risk of developing a streptococcal infection and subsequently rheumatic fever.
- Access to primary healthcare: Lack of access to primary healthcare can increase the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever.
- Dietary habits: Regular consumption of sugary beverages has been associated with a higher risk of developing acute rheumatic fever.
It's important to note that while these factors may increase the likelihood of developing rheumatic fever, they do not guarantee its occurrence. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
The most common early symptoms of rheumatic fever include:
- Fever
- Painful and tender joints, commonly in the knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists
Other common symptoms that may occur with later stages, progression, or higher severity of rheumatic fever include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fast heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Uncontrollable jerky movements (chorea)
- Skin rash with pink rings and a clear center (rare)
- Painless lumps near the joints (rare)
- Enlarged heart
- Fluid around the heart
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Rheumatic fever can have potentially life-threatening complications. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose rheumatic fever, healthcare providers commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: The healthcare provider will gather information about your past medical history, including any recent illnesses, particularly untreated strep throat, which is a common trigger for rheumatic fever.
- Physical exam: The healthcare provider will look for signs of inflammation, such as joint swelling, pain, or redness. They may also check for a rapid or irregular heartbeat, skin rashes or lumps, involuntary movements (chorea) and fever. A throat swab may be done to check for a group A strep infection.
- Lab tests: Specific lab tests may be recommended, such as a blood draw, to check for antibodies or signs of infection.
- Imaging studies: Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans may be done to evaluate certain body systems and look for any abnormalities.
- Clinical procedures: Depending on the symptoms and information gathered, clinical procedures may be recommended to assess specific complications or support the diagnosis. Examples include:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test measures how well the heart is working and can help detect any abnormalities in heart function.
- Echocardiography (echo): This test creates a movie of the heart muscle working and can show any damage to the heart valves.
It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or change after the initial examination. They may recommend further tests or procedures based on your individual situation.
The goals of treatment for rheumatic fever are to manage inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent further complications. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work to achieve these goals:
- Medications:
- Antibiotics: These are prescribed to eliminate any remaining group A strep bacteria and prevent recurrent infections.
- Pain and fever reducers: Medications such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and decrease fever associated with rheumatic fever.
- Corticosteroids: They may be prescribed to further reduce inflammation.
- Self-care and health behavior changes:
- Bed rest: It is recommended to promote healing and reduce strain on the heart during the acute phase of rheumatic fever.
- Restricted activities: Limiting physical exertion helps prevent complications and allows the body to heal.
- Adherence with medication regimen: Taking prescribed antibiotics and other medications as directed helps eliminate the infection and manage symptoms effectively.
- Regular follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups allow healthcare professionals to monitor progress, adjust treatment if needed, and detect any potential complications.
These treatments work together to manage inflammation, relieve symptoms such as pain and fever, eliminate the infection, prevent further complications, and promote overall recovery. Remember, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your healthcare professional about dosing for your individual situation. Side effects can occur. Check with your healthcare professional or read the information provided with your medication for side effect information.