Cardiology
Rheumatic heart disease: protecting the heart valves
Rheumatic heart disease can develop after acute rheumatic fever caused by certain streptococcal infections. The heart valves can be damaged gradually, sometimes years after the initial episode.
Written by the Polycrabat Sevamed team · Published on · Updated on
In brief
- A heart murmur, breathlessness or tiredness may lead to an echocardiogram.
- Preventing recurrences of acute rheumatic fever is part of care.
- A damaged valve may require monitoring or a specialised procedure.
Which signs lead to an assessment?
Breathlessness, palpitations, swollen legs, reduced exercise capacity or feeling unwell require a consultation. Listening to the heart may reveal a murmur, but only echocardiography precisely describes the valve, the severity of the narrowing or leak, and its effect on the heart.
Which other tests may be useful?
The electrocardiogram looks for a rhythm disorder. Other tests assess heart function and prepare for a possible procedure. A pregnancy, or plans for pregnancy, requires an appropriate assessment when the valve damage is significant.
How can it be prevented and treated?
Long-term antibiotic prevention (secondary prophylaxis) is indicated for some people who have had acute rheumatic fever, depending on their situation. A severely damaged valve may require repair, replacement or, in some cases, a catheter-based procedure. The choice depends on the anatomy and the risk.
Why continue follow-up?
Severity can change even when symptoms seem stable. Follow-up checks the valve, the heart rhythm and the treatments. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain calls for prompt assessment.
Useful questions to ask
- Which valve is affected, and to what degree?
- Is antibiotic prevention indicated, and for how long?
- Which signs should bring the next consultation forward?
Frequently asked questions
Does a murmur necessarily mean surgery?
No. The cause and severity must first be established.
Can a valve get worse without any pain?
Yes. That is why scheduled check-ups matter.
What should you send for an opinion on valve surgery?
The recent echocardiogram, recorded if possible, its report, the electrocardiogram, current treatments and any history of acute rheumatic fever. The team then specifies which tests to complete before discussing a procedure.
This content provides general medical information. It does not replace a consultation or a personalised decision by your care team. In case of serious or sudden symptoms, contact the emergency services in your country or a doctor without delay.
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How does the disease develop?
After certain streptococcal throat infections, an inflammatory reaction can affect the joints and the heart. The valve damage may then progress slowly. Not all sore throats lead to this complication, and not all valve diseases are rheumatic in origin.