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Rheumatic Heart Disease

‘Rheumatic heart disease’ is one of the most common causes of death in both young and old people.  Many are puzzled  whether ‘rheumatic heart disease’ is inborn or acquired.

‘Rheumatic heart disease’ is an acquired medical condition. It is a sequel of rheumatic fever which affects children and adolescents. ‘Rheumatic fever’ is caused by a bacteria called ‘streptococcus’ that causes tonsillitis or sore throat. By some abnormal response of the body to this infection, the infection also damage the valves of the heart.

Usually, there is spontaneous healing but the scars left on these valves are those that cause trouble later in life. These leaflet-like valves thicken so that the blood passing through the heart gets obstructed, resulting to heart failure and congestion — thus it is called rheumatic heart disease.

‘Rheumatic fever’ can be prevented by prompt and  adequate antibiotic treatment of tonsillitis especially in children. That’s why don’t take it for granted when your kids get sore-throat accompanied by fever. Have your family doctor check them immediately.

Posted on July 19, 2009
Category: Family Health and Wellness
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