What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic Fever Explained: Diagnosis & Treatment Guide

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop when strep throat or scarlet fever isn't properly treated. It most often affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, but younger children and adults can also be affected.

The disease can affect the heart, joints, brain, and skin. However, it is crucial to understand its symptoms and causes for early diagnosis. Read ahead for detailed information about rheumatic fever, along with its symptoms, causes, and treatment.

What are the causes of rheumatic fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop after an infection with group A streptococcus bacteria, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. If these infections are not properly treated with antibiotics, the immune system may overreact and attack the body's tissues, leading to inflammation in the heart, joints, skin, or brain.

Factors that increase the risk of rheumatic fever include inadequate or delayed treatment of strep infection, crowded or unsanitary conditions, which can facilitate the spread of group A streptococcus, and genetic predispositions.

What are the symptoms of rheumatic fever?

Here are some of the common symptoms of rheumatic fever:

• Fever: A high body temperature is common.
• Joint Pain and Swelling: Typically affects knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest area.
• Chorea: Involuntary, jerky movements, especially in the face, hands, and feet.
• Skin Rash: A flat or slightly raised rash with a ragged edge.
• Subcutaneous Nodules: Small, painless lumps under the skin near joints.
   

What is the treatment for rheumatic fever?

Timely and appropriate treatment is crucial to prevent complications of rheumatic fever, such as

1. Antibiotic Therapy: The primary treatment involves antibiotics like penicillin to eliminate the streptococcal bacteria. Alternatives, such as erythromycin, are used for individuals allergic to penicillin.
2. Anti-inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin are administered to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In cases of severe inflammation, corticosteroids may be prescribed.
3. Long-term Antibiotic Prophylaxis: After the initial treatment, continuous antibiotic prophylaxis is essential to prevent recurrence. This typically involves regular doses of antibiotics, often extending for several years, depending on the patient's age and severity of the disease.
4. Cardiac Monitoring and Treatment: Since rheumatic fever can affect the heart, regular monitoring through echocardiograms is important. If heart complications arise, specific treatments or interventions may be necessary.
5. Symptomatic Relief: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen can help manage fever and joint pain. Adequate rest and hydration also support recovery.

How to Prevent Rheumatic Fever?

To prevent rheumatic fever, follow these simple steps:

1. Promptly Treat Strep Throat: If you have a sore throat, especially with fever, seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of group A streptococcal infections can prevent rheumatic fever.
2. Complete the Full Course of Antibiotics: Always finish the entire prescribed antibiotic regimen, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands regularly, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid sharing personal items to reduce the spread of infections.
4. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals: Stay away from people who are ill, and keep children home from school if they show signs of strep throat.

Rheumatic fever can become painful and severe if early diagnosis and proper treatment are not followed immediately. Thus, it is always essential to have health insurance to secure your health and finances during critical times.

At Star Health, we offer comprehensive coverage for various health conditions, including rheumatic fever, under our insurance plans. We also provide hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.