Inflamed Heart Symptoms (Myocarditis)

Introduction

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocardium). It can lead to various complications, including heart failure, arrhythmias, and, in severe cases, sudden cardiac death. Understanding the symptoms and seeking early medical intervention is crucial.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of myocarditis can vary in severity and may mimic other conditions. The most common symptoms include:

1. General Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Fever (if caused by an infection)
• Muscle aches and general malaise

2. Cardiac Symptoms

• Chest pain (often sharp and sometimes mistaken for a heart attack)
• Shortness of breath (especially during physical activity or when lying down)
• Palpitations (irregular or rapid heartbeat)
• Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet (due to fluid retention from weakened heart function)

3. Severe Symptoms (Require Immediate Medical Attention)

• Sudden severe chest pain
• Fainting or dizziness
• Rapid worsening of breathlessness

Causes and Risk Factors

Myocarditis can be caused by various factors, including: 1. Viral infections (e.g., adenovirus, Coxsackievirus, SARS-CoV-2) 2. Bacterial infections (e.g., Lyme disease, diphtheria) 3. Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis) 4. Toxins and drugs (e.g., chemotherapy, alcohol, cocaine)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of myocarditis involves: - Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal heart rhythms - Echocardiogram to assess heart structure and function - Cardiac MRI for detecting inflammation - Blood tests (e.g., troponin, inflammatory markers, viral tests)

Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity: - Mild cases: Rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and treatment of the underlying infection - Severe cases: Hospitalization, medications to support heart function, and sometimes advanced treatments like ventricular assist devices (VADs) or heart transplantation in extreme cases

Prevention Tips

• Prevent viral infections by practicing good hygiene
• Vaccination (e.g., flu, COVID-19) can help reduce the risk of viral-triggered myocarditis
• Avoid harmful substances like excessive alcohol and recreational drugs

Conclusion

Myocarditis can be mild or life-threatening. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical attention is essential to prevent complications. If you experience persistent chest pain, breathlessness, or abnormal heart rhythms, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Myocarditis

1. https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2024.10.080
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.120.007405
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/myocarditis
4. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.031454
5. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/08/22/covid-19-infection-poses-higher-risk-for-myocarditis-than-vaccines

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Myocardial Diseases

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Cardiomyopathy-Guidelines
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320112/
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
5. https://www.escardio.org/