Myocarditis

Myocarditis is a disorder caused by inflammation of the middle layer of heart muscle. Viral infections such as coxsackie virus, adenovirus, and echovirus are the most common cause. Myocarditis may also occur during or after various viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. It may also be caused by radiation, exposure to chemicals or medication, or connective tissue diseases.

The middle layer of heart muscle becomes inflamed and irritated, causing symptoms similar to a heart attack or even heart failure. It is a fairly uncommon disorder.

Manifestation: Total absence of symptoms is common, but symptoms may include:

Fever
Vague chest pain
Severe chest pain as in a heart attack
Joint pain
Palpitations,
Rapid heartbeat
Fatigue, often from the viral infection
Signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure
Sudden death (rare)

Diagnose and treatment: Tests used in the diagnosis of myocarditis include:

ECG showing abnormalities
Echocardiogram to observe heart function and rule out clots
Biopsy of the heart muscle this test can confirm the diagnosis
Cultures (may be performed if infection is suspected as a cause of the disorder)
Specific therapy is not available may include analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications (often including steroids) may be used to reduce symptoms. There may be a need to treat arrhythmias with antiarrhythmic medications. Activity may be restricted to bedrest to reduce cardiac workload, and the diet may be salt/sodium restricted.

Myocarditis Resource:

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