About Rheumatic Fever

What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop after a strep throat or scarlet fever infection. It is caused by an autoimmune reaction to the strep bacteria. Symptoms of rheumatic fever include fever, joint pain, rash, and heart problems. If left untreated, it can lead to long-term heart damage. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications.

What are the symptoms of Rheumatic Fever?

The symptoms of Rheumatic Fever can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:

-Joint Pain and swelling

-Fever

-Fatigue

-Shortness of breath

-Chest pain

-Rash

-Abdominal pain

-Headache

-Nodules under the skin

-Heart murmurs

-Swelling of the lymph nodes

What are the causes of Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop after a strep throat or scarlet fever infection. It is caused by an autoimmune reaction to the streptococcal bacteria. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, including the heart, joints, skin, and brain. The exact cause of this reaction is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

What are the treatments for Rheumatic Fever?

The main treatment for rheumatic fever is antibiotics to treat the underlying infection caused by the streptococcal bacteria. Other treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation and pain, and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged heart valves. In addition, lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, may be recommended.

What are the risk factors for Rheumatic Fever?

1. Not receiving appropriate treatment for a strep throat infection.
2. Living in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions.
3. Having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other chronic illnesses.
4. Being of lower socioeconomic status.
5. Being of Indigenous or Maori descent.
6. Being between the ages of 5 and 15.
7. Having a family history of rheumatic fever.

Is there a cure/medications for Rheumatic Fever?

Yes, there is a cure for Rheumatic Fever. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation, and medications to reduce the risk of further heart damage.