Rheumatic Valvular Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Rheumatic valvular disease is a heart condition that affects the heart valves. It often develops after rheumatic fever, which can follow untreated strep throat. Because this disease can cause lasting heart valve damage, it is important to know its signs and how to manage it. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rheumatic heart disease remains a major health problem in many countries. Early care can help prevent serious complications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of rheumatic valvular disease may not appear right away. However, as the condition worsens, you may notice:

Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down

Fatigue or feeling tired easily

Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

Chest pain or discomfort

Irregular or fast heartbeat

Fainting or dizziness

Sometimes, symptoms of rheumatic heart disease can be mild at first. But over time, they may get worse if not treated.

Causes and Risk Factors

Rheumatic valvular disease usually starts with rheumatic fever. This fever is a reaction to a strep throat infection that was not treated properly. The body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, including the heart valves. Over time, this can lead to heart valve damage from rheumatic fever.

Several factors increase the risk:

Repeated strep throat infections

Poor access to medical care

Living in crowded or unsanitary conditions

Family history of rheumatic fever

Children between ages 5 and 15 are most at risk. However, adults can also develop this disease if they had rheumatic fever as children.

Diagnosis

Doctors use several tests to diagnose rheumatic valvular disease. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may listen to your heart with a stethoscope for unusual sounds called murmurs.

Common tests and procedures include:

Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart and valves.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): It checks your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.

Chest X-ray: This shows the size and shape of your heart.

Blood tests: These can show signs of infection or inflammation.

Early diagnosis helps prevent further heart damage and guides the best treatment for rheumatic valve problems.

Treatment Options

Treatment for rheumatic valvular disease depends on how severe the valve damage is. Doctors may suggest:

Medications: These help control symptoms and prevent further damage. Common drugs include antibiotics, diuretics (water pills), and medicines to control heart rate.

Regular monitoring: Doctors may check your heart often to watch for changes.

Surgery: In some cases, doctors may repair or replace the damaged valve. This is more common if symptoms are severe or if the valve does not work well.

With the right treatment, many people can live active lives. However, ongoing care is important to prevent problems.

Lifestyle Guidance and Prevention

There are steps you can take to protect your heart and prevent rheumatic valvular disease:

Treat strep throat quickly with antibiotics

Follow your doctor’s advice for all medications

Go for regular check-ups, especially if you had rheumatic fever

Eat a healthy diet and stay active

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Additionally, good hygiene and clean living conditions can help prevent strep infections. Early treatment of sore throats in children is key.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling, see a doctor right away. Also, if you had rheumatic fever in the past, regular heart check-ups are important. Early care can prevent serious heart problems later on.

Conclusion

Rheumatic valvular disease can cause lasting heart valve damage if not treated. But with early diagnosis and the right care, you can manage symptoms and protect your heart. Consult a cardiologist for personalized guidance.