Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD.
Patient Handout
RHEUMATIC
FEVER
About Your
Diagnosis
Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory response to a
previous streptococcal infection, which may have been mild or untreated. It
affects the heart, nervous system, skin, and joints. It usually occurs in
children younger than 18 years. Rheumatic fever is not contagious, but the strep
infections that caused it is. The strep infection is curable with antibiotic
treatment. Blood tests may be helpful in diagnosing the
disease.Living With Your
DiagnosisSigns and symptoms include
fever, loss of appetite, mild rash, fatigue, paleness, small bumps under the
skin over bony areas (such as the hands, wrists, elbows, and knuckles), and
joint inflammation that is characterized by pain, swelling, and warmth. If the
heart is involved, there may be shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles and
around the eyes, and a rapid heartbeat. There may be uncontrolled jerky
movements. The most common complication of this disease is damage to the heart
valves, resulting in a heart murmur. In some cases the damaged valves may need
surgical
replacement.TreatmentBed
rest is required until the disease has subsided. This could take 2–5
weeks. Antibiotic treatment over a long period is needed. Let your doctor know
if you are allergic to penicillin. In the early stages, a liquid or soft diet
may be better tolerated, with progression to a normal diet high in calories,
protein, and vitamins. Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs are given for
the muscle and joint pain. Common side effects of these drugs are ringing in the
ears and stomach upset. After the initial infection is over, a daily dose of
penicillin is necessary.The
DOs• Take antibiotics as
prescribed until finished.• Take the
daily dose of penicillin as
instructed.• Rest. Use a bedside
commode so trips to the bathroom will be
minimal.• Encourage fluid intake
while the fever is present.• Resume
activity gradually. It will be necessary to schedule rest periods and
naps.• Seek treatment for any sore
throats in the future.• Inform
doctors or dentists of your history of the disease because you will need
antibiotics before any surgical
procedures.The
DON’Ts• Don’t skip
or stop antibiotics until finished.•
Don’t have any dental surgery or other surgeries until antibiotics are
taken first.• Don’t resume
activity until fever and other symptoms
subside.When to Call Your
DoctorIf during treatment you
have:• Swelling of the legs or
ankles.• Shortness of
breath.• Vomiting or
diarrhea.• A dry hacking
cough.• Severe abdominal
pain.• A temperature of 101°F
or
higher.Websites:www.healthanswers.comwww.healthfinder.gov