MYOCARDITIS

 Basic information

description

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocardium). It can lead to poor heart function. Myocarditis usually occurs as a complication of another illness. It can affect any age, but often affects adults under age 50.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• No symptoms or symptoms may be mild and vague.
• Fatigue.
• Shortness of breath with physical activity.
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat.
• Fever.
• Chest discomfort or pain (sometimes severe).
• Muscle aches.
• If myocarditis causes congestive heart failure, the following symptoms may also occur:
  • Swollen feet and ankles.
  • Distended (sticking out) neck veins.
  • Rapid heartbeat, even when at rest.
  • Breathing difficulty while resting or lying down.

causes

The inflammation can result from numerous medical conditions. A viral infection is a common cause.

risk increases with

• Viral infection, such as Coxsackie, adenovirus, measles, influenza, herpes simplex, hepatitis, varicella, HIV, or others.
• Bacterial infections, such as tetanus, gonorrhea, typhoid fever, tuberculosis, or diphtheria.
• Immune system disorders (lupus, arthritis, others).
• Parasitic or fungal infections.
• Certain drugs (e.g., sulfa, penicillin, or cocaine).
• Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Avoid risk factors where possible.

expected outcomes

Mild cases caused by a virus usually clear up on their own in about 2 weeks. Mild cases from other causes are usually treated successfully. In more severe cases, the outcome will depend on the underlying cause, patient's health status, and treatment.

possible complications

• Congestive heart failure.
• Heart rhythm problems.
• Weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
• Sudden death due to abnormal heart rhythm.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam. Medical tests may include blood studies, chest x-ray, and heart function tests. A biopsy may be done. This involves removal of a small amount of tissue for viewing under a microscope.
• There is no specific treatment for myocarditis. Treatment usually involves rest, treating symptoms, and drugs for a diagnosed infection. Hospital care may be needed for more severe symptoms.
• For home care, weigh daily and monitor your blood pressure. Tell your health care provider if unexpected changes occur.

medications

• Your health care provider may prescribe:
  • Antibiotics for a bacterial infection.
  • Steroid drugs to reduce inflammation.
  • Diuretics to reduce fluid build up.
  • Digitalis to stimulate a stronger heartbeat.
  • Anticoagulants to prevent clot formation.
  • Pain remedies.
  • Drugs to reduce the heart's workload (e.g., beta blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors).

activity

• Rest in bed until symptoms improve. Recovery time varies, depending on the underlying cause.
• After recovery, resume normal activities gradually.

diet

A low-salt diet and limits on fluid intake may be recommended.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has myocarditis symptoms.
• Symptoms get worse or don't improve with time or treatment.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

Special Notes: