Rheumatic Heart Disease

Introduction

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is an outcome of rheumatic fever, and involves inflammation and damage to parts of the heart, especially the valves (Eagle 313). RHD is one of the most common acquired childhood diseases, especially in regions where poverty is high. It is caused by rheumatic fever, which is attributed to streptococci infection in the throat, lungs and heart. Acute RHD affects the heart joints and central nervous system (Lie et al. 861). An estimated 15.6 million people worldwide suffer from RHD, which causes more than 200,000 deaths annually. Children and young adults living in developing countries account for the greatest number of victims (Sliwa et al. 719). Liu et al. (862) note that the worst affected areas are

862). According to Eagle (313), diagnosis of RHD involves several criteria, including recent evidence of streptococcal, presence of rheumatic fever and symptoms of heart failure.

Complications

In cases of advanced RHD, heart valves are likely to be severely damaged. This necessitates open heart surgery to repair or replacement of damaged heart valves (Liu et al. 862). According to Liu et al. (861-862), once rheumatic fever develops, it can lead to fibrosis of heart valves, which leads to crippling valvular heart disease, and subsequent heart failure or death of the afflicted person.

Treatment

Early diagnosis of RHD makes it possible for treatment interventions to begin at an early stage. This promotes the likelihood of successful treatment therapies. According to Liu et al. (862), treatment primarily entails oral intake of an antibiotic, such as Penicillin, over a duration of 10 days. In cases of acute rheumatic fever, Aspirin or some other anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

In most cases, 60 to 80 percent of patients who undergo antibiotic therapy recover from RHD (Eagle 313).

Prevention

Liu et al. (861) state that the antibiotic Penicillin is widely used for the treatment and prevention of RHD. By giving regular monthly injections of antibiotics, rheumatic fever can be controlled, hence prevent the development of RHD. Prevention of RHD can be largely achieved if people at risk in endemic areas are screened. It is also believed that vitamins C and E as well as natural antioxidants can help prevent RHD.

Conclusion

RHD is the most common heart-related disease in developing countries and regions with a poor population, mainly affecting children. Although RHD is associated with high fatalities, it is a disease that can be prevented, especially through screening that allows for early treatment. This makes it important to educate populations about the importance of screening, especially those at highest risk of contracting