Cardiology;;
ABOUT THE DISEASE
RHD is a chronic heart condition caused by rheumatic fever, mainly affecting the heart valves. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that begins with strep throat. It can affect connective tissue throughout the body, especially in the heart, joints, brain and skin. It can occur in people of all ages, but is most common in children between 5 and 15 years old.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
- Rheumatic heart disease is caused by rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is caused by a preceding group A streptococcal (strep) infection. Treating strep throat with antibiotics can prevent rheumatic fever.- Weakened immune system.
DIAGNOSIS
- Clinical Examination- Chest X-ray- Echocardiography- Electrocardiogram- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the heart
TREATMENT METHODS
Options include:
- Medication
- In case of damaged heart valve that is narrow or leaks, patient may need surgery to repair (balloon valvuloplasty) or replace the valve.
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