What is Rheumatic Heart Disease?
Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a serious heart condition caused by untreated strep throat or scarlet fever. When a bacterial infection (Group A Streptococcus) is left untreated, the body’s immune response can mistakenly attack the heart valves, leading to permanent damage.
Symptoms of Rheumatic Heart Disease
RHD develops years after an untreated strep infection, so early detection is crucial. Symptoms include:
✅ Shortness of breath – Even with mild activities
✅ Chest pain – Due to valve damage
✅ Fatigue – Feeling excessively tired
✅ Swollen legs or feet – Due to poor heart function
✅ Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) – A sign of advanced disease
✅ Fainting or dizziness – Due to improper blood circulation
Why is RHD Dangerous?
If left untreated, RHD can lead to:
❌ Heart failure – The heart struggles to pump blood efficiently
❌ Valve damage – Leading to leakage or narrowing of heart valves
❌ Stroke or blood clots – Due to irregular blood flow
❌ Infective endocarditis – A life-threatening infection of damaged valves
Treatment of Rheumatic Heart Disease
While valve damage is irreversible, treatment focuses on preventing complications and improving heart function.
1️⃣ Medical Management
🩺 Antibiotics – To prevent recurrent strep infections (Penicillin prophylaxis)
💊 Anti-inflammatory medications – To reduce swelling in the heart
❤️ Blood thinners – If there’s valve disease with clot risk
2️⃣ Surgical Treatment (For Severe Cases)
🔹 Balloon Valvuloplasty – A minimally invasive procedure to open narrowed valves
🔹 Valve Repair – Restoring damaged valves
🔹 Valve Replacement – Using a mechanical or tissue valve to replace a failing valve
How to Prevent Rheumatic Heart Disease?
✅ Early treatment of sore throat – A simple antibiotic course can prevent RHD
✅ Regular follow-ups – Especially for those with a history of strep infections
✅ Penicillin prophylaxis – Lifelong antibiotics in some cases to prevent recurrence
✅ Healthy lifestyle – Proper diet, exercise, and avoiding infections help maintain heart health
Final Takeaway
Rheumatic Heart Disease is entirely preventable, yet it remains a leading cause of heart valve damage in young adults. Timely treatment of strep throat can save a lifetime of heart trouble. If you or your loved ones experience symptoms, seek medical help immediately!
💙 Your heart matters—protect it early!
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