Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)
Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a serious condition that affects the heart valves. It develops as a complication of rheumatic fever, which is caused by an untreated or poorly managed streptococcal throat infection.
Causes and Risk Factors
Streptococcal Infection:
The root cause is an infection with Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
Autoimmune Response:
The immune system attacks the heart, joints, skin, and brain after the infection.
Poor Access to Healthcare:
More common in low-income areas where early antibiotic treatment is unavailable.
Recurrent Infections:
Repeated streptococcal infections increase the risk of damage.
Symptoms of RHD
Shortness of breath (due to valve damage)
Fatigue and weakness
Swelling of the legs and face (signs of heart failure)
Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
Chest pain
Fainting episodes
Diagnosis
Echocardiogram (Echo):
Echocardiogram (Echo):
Shows valve damage.
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
Detects irregular heart rhythms.
Blood tests:
Blood tests:
Check for signs of inflammation and past infection.
Treatment
Medical Treatment
- Antibiotics: To prevent recurrent streptococcal infections.
Anti-inflammatory medications: Such as aspirin or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. - Heart failure medications: If needed, diuretics or beta-blockers.
Surgical Treatment
- Valve repair or replacement may be required in severe cases.
Prevention
Early treatment of strep throat infections with antibiotics
Regular check-ups for individuals with a history of rheumatic fever
Improving access to healthcare in high-risk areas
Conclusion
Rheumatic Heart Disease is preventable and treatable if detected early. Proper management of streptococcal infections and regular monitoring is essential to avoid long-term heart complications.
Information resources recommended
1. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Infective Endocarditis
1. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Infective Endocarditis
2. 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
2. 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease