Rheumatic heart disease
Rheumatic Heart Disease
Rheumatic heart disease (pronunciation: roo-MAT-ik HART dih-ZEEZ) is a condition in which permanent damage to heart valves is caused by rheumatic fever.
Etymology
The term "rheumatic" derives from the Greek word "rheumatismos" which means "to suffer from a flux." It was used to describe the flow of watery discharge from the body. "Heart disease" is a combination of the Old English "heorte" (heart) and the Latin "dis-ease" (lack of ease).
Definition
Rheumatic heart disease is a complication of rheumatic fever in which the heart valves are damaged. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated streptococcus throat infection. In rheumatic fever, the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system can be affected.
Symptoms
Symptoms of rheumatic heart disease include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and swelling of the legs and ankles.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease involves a medical history, physical examination, and tests such as an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests.
Treatment
Treatment for rheumatic heart disease may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery to repair or replace damaged heart valves.
Prevention
Prevention of rheumatic heart disease involves the prompt treatment of streptococcal infections with antibiotics.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rheumatic heart disease
- Wikipedia's article - Rheumatic heart disease
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