How to Treat Rheumatic Fever?

What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever, also referred to as acute rheumatic fever, is a condition stemming from untreated or insufficiently treated streptococcal infections, particularly those affecting the throat or skin. Predominantly affecting children aged 5 to 15, this disorder arises due to the body's immune response to the initial infection. If not promptly addressed, it can result in significant long-term damage to the heart valves and other organs.

This autoimmune disorder, often encountered rarely, triggers inflammation in the tissues and organs of a child when their immune system reacts excessively to an untreated strep throat or scarlet fever infection. Strep throat and scarlet fever, both bacterial infections caused by group A Streptococcus, can lead to the immune system mistakenly targeting the child's own tissues. This, in turn, causes swelling and inflammation, impacting their joints, heart, and blood vessels.

Why is Rheumatic Fever a Concern?

The primary concern associated with rheumatic fever stems from its potential to cause significant harm to various organs, most notably the heart. When streptococcal infections are left untreated, the body's immune system can mistakenly target its own tissues, triggering inflammation. This inflammatory response can affect the heart, joints, skin, and the central nervous system, leading to complications such as rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic heart disease can result in chronic heart issues, increased risk of heart valve damage, and other systemic complications, underscoring the importance of timely and effective treatment.