Understanding Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever is a disease that can develop when strep throat or scarlet fever isn’t properly treated. It is caused by an infection with group A streptococcus bacteria.
Key Fact: Although rheumatic fever can occur at any age, it is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15.
Common Symptoms
Joint Pain (Arthritis)
Pain and swelling in the large joints, often moving from one joint to another.
Heart Inflammation
Shortness of breath and chest pain caused by inflammation of the heart tissue (carditis).
Small Painless Bumps
Nodules that form under the skin near bony areas.
Jerky Movements
Uncontrollable body movements (Sydenham chorea), most often in the hands, feet, and face.
Risk Factors
- Untreated or inadequately treated strep throat
- Family history
- Environmental factors like overcrowding and poor sanitation
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves checking for signs of heart inflammation and identifying evidence of a recent strep infection.
Common Treatments
-
Antibiotics: Penicillin or other antibiotics to eliminate any remaining strep bacteria.
-
Anti-inflammatory Meds: Aspirin or naproxen to reduce inflammation and joint pain.
-
Long-term Prevention: Regular antibiotic shots for several years to prevent recurring rheumatic fever.