Heart Disease - Acute Rheumatic in Children

Acute rheumatic heart disease in children is known to be the most serious complication of rheumatic fever in that group. Studies show that as many as 39 percent of acute rheumatic fever patients may develop varying degrees of heart disease.

Acute rheumatic heart disease in children was, 100 years ago, the leading cause of death in those between ages 5 and 20. Since the 1960s, however, the incidence of this heart disease has decreased in developed countries. Those who do get rheumatic heart disease can be treated. The mortality rate now stands at just above 0 percent.

Acute rheumatic heart disease in children often produces inflammation of the entire heart. In the inner heart lining, this inflammation shows up as valve damage. Usually, it is the mitral valve that is affected most severely. Other valves may also be damaged.

In acute rheumatic heart disease, the damaged heart valve or valves either does not completely close or it does not completely open. Eventually, damaged heart valves can cause serious problems. Severe valve damage during acute rheumatic heart disease in children can result in congestive heart failure. In this heart disease, the heart enlarges and is unable to pump out all of the blood that enters.

Symptoms of Acute Rheumatic Heart Disease in Children

If a diagnosis of rheumatic fever has been made, the following symptoms may indicate acute rheumatic heart disease in children. The child may show some or all of these symptoms.

* Rapid heart rate that is out of proportion to the fever
* Breathing difficulty
* Exercise intolerance
* Chest discomfort and pain
* Swelling of legs, feet, arms, or hands
* Cough
* New or changing heart murmur

Preventing Acute Rheumatic Heart Disease in Children

Acute rheumatic heart disease can be prevented in children by preventing acute rheumatic fever itself. Doctors can usually prevent the development of acute rheumatic fever by treating strep throat with appropriate antibiotics.

Children who have had acute rheumatic fever are more susceptible to heart disease. It is recommended that they receive monthly or daily antibiotic treatment for months, and maybe years.

CAUTION: The information presented here is for educational purposes only. The author is not a medical professional. Please ask your physician for further information about acute rheumatic heart disease in children.