Rheumatic Fever – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A throat infected with group A streptococcus.

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory reaction to an infection caused by streptococcal bacteria. Usually the infection starts from the throat causing sore throat. The infection slowly spreads to other areas like joints, heart, skin and brain producing serious complications. It is commonly seen in children aged 5-15 years. Rheumatic fever follows 20 days after a throat infection by streptococcal bacteria. Its incidence is high in people living in congested areas with poor nutritional standards.

What are the symptoms of Rheumatic Fever?

• Severe throat infection caused by streptococcal bacteria.
• After 20 days of throat infection symptoms in other areas develop with high fever.
• Swelling and pain in joints usually in larger joints like knees, elbows and ankles.
• Chest pain and fatigue.
• Palpitation of the heart due to inflammation of the heart valves.
• Skin rash and development of small nodules under the skin.
• Infection of the heart valves causes a permanent damage leading to heart attacks in later part of the life of the patient.

How Rheumatic Fever is diagnosed?

• Culture of a throat swab to confirm the infection by streptococcal bacteria.
• ‘X-Ray studies to study the condition of the heart and inflammation.
• ECG to monitor the electrical activity of the heart.
• Echo cardiogram to study the condition of the heart valves and internal areas.

How is Rheumatic Fever treated?

When there is severe pain and inflammation of the joints NSAID are given to control them as soon as the throat infection is confirmed with streptococcal bacteria treatment with antibiotics is commenced. Generally long acting penicillin is given to clear the bacteria completely. The antibiotics are continued for long periods to prevent recurrence and damage to the vital parts. Complete bed rest helps to avoid stress.

Prevention of Rheumatic Fever:

A prompt blood test if there is a throat infection and commencing antibiotic treatment if it is caused by streptococcal bacteria.