Overview of Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a serious and long-term complication that occurs after untreated or poorly treated rheumatic fever, which usually begins as a throat infection caused by streptococcal bacteria. Over time, inflammation from rheumatic fever can damage heart valves, leading to leakage, narrowing, or improper valve function. Under the expert care of Dr. Karthik Raghuram, patients receive accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and personalised long-term management to prevent complications and improve heart function.

How Rheumatic Heart Disease Develops

RHD begins as a streptococcal throat infection, commonly seen in children and young adults. If not treated properly, the infection can trigger an autoimmune reaction, causing the body to attack its own heart tissues. This leads to:

• Valve scarring

• Thickening or calcification

• Valve narrowing (stenosis)

• Valve leakage (regurgitation)

• Impaired blood flow

These changes may develop over months or years, making early diagnosis crucial.

Signs & Symptoms of Rheumatic Heart Disease

Symptoms depend on the type and severity of valve damage. Common signs include:

• Shortness of breath during activity or at rest

• Fatigue and weakness

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

• Chest discomfort

• Swelling in legs or ankles

• Frequent respiratory infections

• Episodes of fainting or dizziness

Symptoms often worsen gradually, making timely evaluation essential.

Who Is at Risk for RHD?

You are more likely to develop rheumatic heart disease if you:

• Had untreated or recurrent streptococcal throat infections

• Experienced rheumatic fever in childhood

• Live in areas with poor access to medical care

• Have a family history of rheumatic fever

• Did not complete antibiotic treatment for throat infections

Early treatment of throat infections can prevent RHD entirely.

How Rheumatic Heart Disease Is Diagnosed

Dr. Karthik Raghuram uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose RHD accurately:

1. Clinical Evaluation

Detailed assessment of symptoms, medical history, and heart sounds.

2. Diagnostic Tests

• 2D Echocardiogram: Main tool to assess valve structure, leakage, stiffness, and impact on heart function

• ECG: Identifies rhythm problems

• Chest X-ray: Checks heart enlargement or lung congestion

• Doppler studies: Measures blood flow across valves

• Blood tests: Evaluate inflammation and past infections

These tests help determine the type and severity of valve damage.

Treatment Approach for Rheumatic Heart Disease

Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing disease progression, and repairing or treating damaged valves.

1. Medication Management

• Antibiotics to prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever

• Anti-inflammatory medicines (if active inflammation persists)

• Diuretics for fluid buildup

• Medications to treat arrhythmias

• Blood thinners in specific valve conditions

2. Interventional & Surgical Options

If valve damage is severe:

• Balloon valvotomy (for narrowed valves)

• Valve repair surgery

• Valve replacement (mechanical or bioprosthetic)

Dr. Karthik ensures each treatment is planned based on age, severity, and overall health.

3. Long-Term Monitoring

Regular follow-up is essential to:

• Monitor valve function

• Adjust medications

• Prevent recurrent infections

• Manage arrhythmias

Long-term care significantly improves quality of life and survival.

Complications of Untreated RHD

If not treated properly, rheumatic heart disease can lead to:

• Heart failure

• Severe valve dysfunction

• Stroke

• Lung hypertension

• Infective endocarditis

• Life-threatening arrhythmias

Early intervention greatly reduces these risks.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek urgent care if you experience:

• Sudden breathlessness

• Chest pain

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Fainting episodes

• Swelling in legs or sudden weight gain

These could indicate worsening valve disease or heart failure.

Book Your Rheumatic Heart Disease Consultation

Rheumatic heart disease is manageable with timely and expert medical care. Schedule your evaluation with Dr. Karthik Raghuram to receive accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment, and compassionate long-term management for a healthier future.