Acute Myocarditis – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

 Maintaining heart health is vital as it reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death. It enhances overall well-being, energy levels, and longevity, ensuring a better quality of life.


Acute myocarditis is a condition characterised by the sudden inflammation of the heart muscle (myocardium). It often results from viral infections, autoimmune reactions, or other underlying causes, leading to symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, and heart rhythm abnormalities. Severe cases can impair heart function.


The medical condition can be identified by health symptoms such as weakness, swelling of legs and ankles, irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, and many other reasons.



Causes of Acute Myocarditis

A specific cause of inflammation of the heart muscles has not been identified or stated by researchers. Mentioned below are a few possible health scenarios linked to the cause of the disease:


Virus– Different types of viruses, such as adenovirus, COVID-19, hepatitis B and C, and other similar viruses, are the major cause of the disease. These viruses try to enter the heart through the heart muscles, making them swollen, weak and inflamed. As a result, the affected individual develops the symptoms of the disease. Other infectious viruses, such as echovirus, Epstein-Barr, and German measles, can cause inflammation. These viruses are responsible for damaging the digestion procedure of an individual.

Bacteria– Bacterial infection is also one of the causes of inflammation of heart muscles. Staphylococcus and streptococcus are some of the bacteria that can cause Acute Myocarditis. Bacteria responsible for health issues like diphtheria and Lyme disease are also stated to be responsible for heart disease. People suffering from different heart valve issues are at a higher risk of being affected by these bacteria.

Parasites– Parasites, too, are included in the queue of causes of the disease. Different types of parasites, such as Trypanosomacruzi and toxoplasma, are the common parasites causing the inflammation. Chagas disease is also a significant cause of inflammation of the valves. The disease occurs due to infection spread by different types of insects.

Fungi– Fungi is another possible cause of disease that leads to the quick spread of the symptoms. Fungal infections such as yeast infections, aspergillus, and Histoplasma can cause the disease.

Radiation. High-dose radiation therapy, such as that used in cancer treatment, may lead to myocarditis in some cases.

Certain Medications– Different types of medications causing the disease lead to the situation known as drug-induced Myocarditis. Drugs useful to treat fatal issues like cancer, medications to control seizures, and different antibiotics can also cause heart problems! Hence, it is always advised to consult a doctor before consumption of any medication or combination of medicines.



Symptoms of Acute Myocarditis

Chest Pain– Sudden pain in the chest without any strenuous activity is one of the identifiable acute myocarditis symptoms. The affected individual cannot breathe comfortably and may not be able to perform any physical activity properly. The chest pain is observed due to improper blood flow in the heart muscles due to inflammation. Hence, it is advisable to consult a doctor to identify the root cause of sudden and unbearable chest pain.

Swollen Legs and Feet– The condition happens due to improper blood supply to different body parts. As a result, fluid starts collecting in different parts, including the legs and feet. It causes swelling and difficulty in walking for the affected individual. For medical issues, contact a doctor for proper and required treatment.

Arrhythmia– People suffering from the inflammation of heart valves may face irregular heartbeat. Hence, the affected patient cannot breathe properly or perform physical activity comfortably. The affected individual may feel breathless while climbing stairs or walking longer.

Joint and Muscle Pain. Aching in the muscles and joints, resembling flu-like symptoms.

Dizziness or Fainting. Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or fainting (syncope) due to inadequate blood circulation.

Fluid Accumulation. Fluid may accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary oedema) or the abdominal cavity (ascites).



Treatment for Acute Myocarditis

Medications– Medications are helpful for people suffering from mild symptoms of the disease. Medications such as corticosteroids, heart medications, and medications to treat the underlying cause are prescribed to lower the symptoms of the disease. Different types of medications to treat different symptoms and conditions are prescribed by doctors for patients.

Surgery– Surgeries and procedures to resolve the medical issue are one of the acute myocarditis treatment options. Different types of procedures such as IV medications, Ventricular Assist Devices, Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumps, or even a heart transplant are some of the medical procedures that help to lower the inflammation scenario and allow easy blood flow from the muscles. Selecting the form of surgery depends upon the current condition of the patient.

Anti-inflammatory Drugs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Medications to Manage Heart Failure. Diuretics (water pills), ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or other heart medications can help manage heart failure symptoms.

Immunosuppressive Medications. In cases of autoimmune myocarditis, drugs that suppress the immune system’s response may be used.

Antiviral Drugs. If a viral infection is the cause, antiviral medications may be considered.


Conclusion

Acute Myocarditis is a health condition in which the blood flow is restricted due to inflammation of the heart muscles. It can happen due to different types of health issues. The heart issue can be resolved with the help of medications and surgery.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Acute Myocarditis?

A. It is a medical condition in which the blood flow from the heart muscles is restricted due to inflammation and weakness of the muscles.


Q. What are the symptoms of Acute Myocarditis?

A. Weakness, chest pain, fatigue, swelling of legs and feet, shortness of breath, and other similar health issues are the symptoms of the heart problem.


Q. What are the causes of Acute Myocarditis?

A. Viral infection, fungal infection, bacterial infection, or side effects of certain medications are some causes of the disease.


Q. How is Acute Myocarditis treated?

A. Acute Myocarditis is treated through medications, lifestyle modifications, surgery, supportive care and more.



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