This article explains the causes and symptoms of rheumatic fever.
It covers the possible complications that can result from untreated rheumatic fever, treatments, and more.
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What Are the Signs of Rheumatic Fever?
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Rheumatic fever is thought to be an inflammatory immune response to a past infection.
This rash most often appears on the trunk, inner arms, and thighs.
It is usually painless and non-itchy.
Symptoms of rheumatic fever usually start between one and five weeks after the initial illness.
Complications
Rheumatic fever may cause inflammation and scarring in the heart valves.
As a result, the valves can weaken and leak.
Left untreated, this can lead to heart failure.
Some people may require heart surgery, which may result in death.
Its symptoms are signs of neurological damage, which are typically not permanent.
What Causes Rheumatic Fever?
While those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk, anyone can develop rheumatic fever.
The streptococcal infections that cause rheumatic fever, however, are quite transmissible.
They primarily spread through respiratory droplets that are sneezed or coughed up by the sick person.
Rheumatic fever is more common in parts of the developing world.
Diagnosing Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever cant be diagnosed by a simple blood test.
Rheumatic fever has to be treated with antibiotics.
The first round is intended to get rid of the current infection.
Anti-inflammatory medicationssuch as aspirin, ibuprofen, and corticosteroidsmay also be used to help manage symptoms.
Summary
Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory illness that can develop following a streptococcal infection.
Left untreated, rheumatic fever can weaken and damage heart valves, and may lead to heart failure.
To prevent complications, treatment will involve antibiotics, which may need to be taken long-term.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Rheumatic fever: all you gotta know.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Group A streptococcal (GAS) disease.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Rheumatic heart disease.
Lahiri S, Sanyahumbi A.Acute rheumatic fever.Pediatr Rev.
2022 Aug;45(4):104112. doi:10.18773/austprescr.2022.034
