Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic Heart Disease

What is it?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disorder that can result from strep throat infection. It typically occurs in children aged 5-15 years. Signs and symptoms include a sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain and swelling, and a rash.

Affects heart & brain

Rheumatic fever can damage the heart, causing valve problems which can lead to heart failure or heart disease later in life. The inflammation can also affect the brain and cause abnormal movements, known as Sydenham chorea.

Chorea

Symptoms

Fever, arthritis, chorea (involuntary movements), subcutaneous nodules, and erythema marginatum (rash).

Treatment

Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin or erythromycin. Anti-inflammatory meds (Ibuprofen & Aspirin) . Corticosteroids such as prednisone. Bed rest during the acute stage of the illness . Regular monitoring of heart function and valve damage with echocardiogram. Antibiotic prophylaxis for dental work, infections and invasive procedures

Polyarthritis, fever & subcutaneous nodules
Rheumatic Heart Disease
  • Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disorder that can result from strep throat infection. It typically occurs in children aged 5-15 years. Signs and symptoms include a sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain and swelling, and a rash.
  • Rheumatic fever can damage the heart, causing valve problems which can lead to heart failure or heart disease later in life. The inflammation can also affect the brain and cause abnormal movements, known as Sydenham chorea.
Polyarthritis, fever & subcutaneous nodules

What is chorea?

Chorea is characterized by sudden, jerky, involuntary movements of the face, arms, and legs. Chorea can also cause muscle weakness, slurred speech, and difficulty with balance and coordination. It is believed to be caused by inflammation in certain areas of the brain, although the exact mechanisms of this condition are not fully understood.

Prevention

Treat and identify all streptococcal throat infections such as scarlet fever.

Treat sore throats

Treatment

  • Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin or erythromycin
  • Anti-inflammatory meds (Ibuprofen & Aspirin) 
  • Corticosteroids such as prednisone
  • Bed rest during the acute stage of the illness 
  • Regular monitoring of heart function and valve damage with echocardiogram
  • Antibiotic prophylaxis for dental work, infections and invasive procedures
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