Understanding Rheumatic Heart Valve Damage: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Rheumatic Heart Valve Damage?

Rheumatic heart valve damage is a serious condition that affects the heart’s valves. It often develops after a person has had rheumatic fever. This fever is a complication of untreated strep throat or scarlet fever. When the heart valves are damaged, they may not open or close properly. As a result, blood flow through the heart can be affected. Rheumatic heart valve damage is a leading cause of heart valve disease from rheumatic fever, especially in children and young adults globally.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most cases of rheumatic heart valve damage start with a strep throat infection. If this infection is not treated, it can lead to rheumatic fever. Over time, rheumatic fever can cause swelling and scarring of the heart valves. This damage may appear years after the initial illness.

Untreated or repeated strep throat infections

History of rheumatic fever

Living in crowded or low-resource areas

Limited access to medical care

Family history of rheumatic heart disease

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rheumatic heart disease remains a major health problem in many parts of the world.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of rheumatic heart disease may not appear right away. However, as the valve damage gets worse, you may notice signs such as:

Shortness of breath, especially during activity

Fatigue or feeling tired easily

Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

Chest pain or discomfort

Irregular or fast heartbeat

Fainting or dizziness

In addition, some people may have a cough or notice a heart murmur, which is an unusual sound heard with a stethoscope.

Diagnosis and Tests

Doctors use several tests to diagnose rheumatic heart valve damage. First, they will ask about your medical history and symptoms. Then, they may perform a physical exam to listen for heart murmurs. Common tests include:

Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart and valves.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): It checks your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.

Chest X-ray: This shows the size and shape of your heart.

Blood tests: These can check for signs of infection or inflammation.

Early diagnosis is important. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), timely treatment can prevent further heart damage.

Treatment Options

Treatment for rheumatic valve damage depends on how severe the problem is. In mild cases, you may only need regular check-ups. However, more serious cases may need medicine or surgery. Common treatments include:

Antibiotics to prevent new strep infections

Medicines to control symptoms, such as diuretics for swelling

Blood thinners to prevent clots

Valve repair or replacement surgery in severe cases

In addition, your doctor will guide you on the best treatment for your needs.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

Preventing rheumatic heart valve damage starts with treating strep throat early. Here are some helpful tips:

See a doctor if you have a sore throat with fever

Take all prescribed antibiotics as directed

Practice good hand hygiene to avoid infections

Attend regular check-ups if you had rheumatic fever

Eat a balanced diet and stay active

For example, washing your hands often can reduce the spread of germs. In addition, following your doctor’s advice can help protect your heart.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling, see a doctor right away. Early care can prevent serious problems. Also, if you had rheumatic fever in the past, regular heart check-ups are important. Do not ignore new or worsening symptoms. Your doctor can help you manage your health and lower your risk of complications.

Consult a cardiologist for personalized advice and early detection of rheumatic heart valve damage.