Rheumatic Fever
Synopsis
Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory condition that can develop after an untreated or poorly treated Group A Streptococcus infection, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. It primarily affects children and adolescents and can cause widespread inflammation of the heart, joints, brain, and skin. The immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly the heart valves, leading to long-term complications such as rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic fever typically develops 2–4 weeks after the initial infection and requires immediate medical care to prevent permanent damage.
Types:
-
Carditis: Inflammation of the heart, especially the mitral and aortic valves
-
Polyarthritis: Migratory joint pain and swelling, often in knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists
-
Chorea (Sydenham’s chorea): Involuntary jerky movements due to nervous system inflammation
-
Erythema marginatum: A distinctive pink rash with a ring-like shape
-
Subcutaneous nodules: Firm, painless lumps under the skin over bones or tendons
Common Causes:
-
Untreated or inadequately treated strep throat
-
Repeated Group A Streptococcus infections
-
Delayed antibiotic intervention
-
Genetic predisposition to autoimmune reactions
Severity Causes:
-
Carditis leading to lifelong rheumatic heart disease
-
Recurrent infections increasing inflammation and valve damage
-
Delayed diagnosis or poor follow-up care
-
Inflammatory response affecting multiple organs simultaneously
When to See a Doctor:
-
Fever, joint pain, and fatigue following strep throat or scarlet fever
-
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart murmur in a child
-
Uncontrolled muscle movements or emotional lability (chorea)
-
Rash or nodules developing after sore throat symptoms
-
Recurrent strep infections with systemic symptoms
Natural Remedies
Rest and recovery: Prolonged bed rest during the acute phase helps minimize stress on the heart and joints while the body resolves inflammation.
Magnesium: Reduces muscle tension and supports nerve and heart function, especially in cases with chorea or muscle discomfort.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Help reduce systemic inflammation and support cardiovascular and immune health during recovery.
Vitamin C: Boosts immune function and helps the body fight residual infections and reduce oxidative stress caused by inflammation.
Probiotics: Support gut and immune balance, especially if antibiotics are used. They help prevent secondary infections and maintain digestive health.
Turmeric: Curcumin acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that may help ease joint pain and systemic inflammation over time.
B-complex vitamins: Support nerve repair, energy production, and recovery after inflammation-related fatigue or chorea.
Avoid reinfection: Ensure full treatment of all strep infections and maintain good hygiene practices to reduce recurrence risk.