Rheumatic Fever Disease Information

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disorder that may occur after a person has had strep throat or scarlet fever. It is most common in kids aged 5 to 15. Symptoms include joint pain and swelling, fever, tiredness, and difficulty breathing. It may also cause chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, and damage to the heart valves. Treatment involves antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications to reduce symptoms. To avoid the development of this disease, it is important to treat strep throat and scarlet fever quickly, and to maintain good hygiene. If not treated promptly, rheumatic fever can have permanent effects, but with early diagnosis and treatment, the risk of lasting issues is reduced.

1. Acute rheumatic fever
2. Rheumatic heart disease
3. Chronic rheumatic fever
4. Rheumatoid arthritis
5. Systemic lupus erythematosus
6. Sjogren's syndrome
7. Polymyalgia rheumatica
8. Gout
9. Ankylosing spondylitis
10. Psoriatic arthritis

1. Joint pain and swelling
2. Fever
3. Rash
4. Fatigue
5. Abdominal pain
6. Shortness of breath
7. Chest pain
8. Heart murmur
9. Unusual nodules under the skin
10. Small, painless bumps on the back of the elbows, knees, ankles, or other joints

1. Physical examination: The doctor will inspect the patient's joints and skin for indications of swelling and eruptions.
2. Blood tests: A blood test can ascertain for antibodies that are generated in response to a strep infection and can assist in diagnosing rheumatic fever.
3. Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram (echo) is a form of ultrasound scan of the heart. It can aid in detecting any damage that may have been caused by rheumatic fever.
4. Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG is a test that gauges the electrical activity of the heart. It can assist in identifying any damage that may have been caused by rheumatic fever.

Rheumatic fever is a swelling disorder that can emerge as a result of a strep throat infection. It can cause painful and swollen joints, a unique kind of rash, harm to heart valves, and other issues.

Rheumatic fever is treated with antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria responsible for the infection, as well as drugs to reduce swelling and ache. Penicillin or erythromycin are commonly used to treat rheumatic fever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen may also be used to lessen inflammation and pain. In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to decrease inflammation. Other medicines such as aspirin, colchicine, and immunosuppressants may also be used to help reduce inflammation. In serious cases, surgery may be necessary to mend any damaged heart valves.

1. Abide by your physician's directions: It is essential to adhere to your physician's directions and take all medicines as directed. Your physician may recommend lifestyle changes such as abstaining from certain activities or foods that could aggravate your symptoms.
2. Lead a healthy lifestyle: Consuming a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate rest can help alleviate the symptoms of rheumatic fever.
3. Steer clear of triggers: Certain triggers such as cold weather, stress, and physical activity can exacerbate symptoms. Evading these triggers can help decrease the intensity of symptoms.
4. Observe good hygiene: Washing your hands frequently and abstaining from contact with people who have strep throat can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria that cause rheumatic fever.
5. Manage stress: Stress can aggravate symptoms of rheumatic fever. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation can help reduce stress.
6. Seek assistance: Talking to family, friends, or a mental health professional can help you cope with the stress and emotions associated with living with rheumatic fever.