Protect Your Heart Against Inflammation And Disease
The proper working of all the other organs in the body is completely dependent on the efficient operation of the heart. But unfortunately, there are many diseases and infections that can affect the heart, disrupting its functioning. One such disease of the heart is called myocarditis. Though it is a rare disease, it involves the inflammation and swelling of the heart muscle and even though in most cases the effects of this infection are not long-term, myocarditis can still prove to be fatal. Hence, it is very important to treat and manage it in time!
What Is Myocarditis?
Myocarditis, an inflammation of the myocardium (the heart muscle), affects the functioning of the heart and the normal electrical signalling of the heart. This rare disease can manifest at any age and even affect a healthy person. Although, it is difficult to point out the cause of the inflammation in most cases, a number of causes like viral infection, bacterial infection, autoimmune diseases, allergic reaction, etc. have been identified. Based on the cause of the inflammation, this disease has varied complications like chest pain, fever, fatigue, respiratory problems, etc. In rare and severe cases myocarditis may also result in death.
Reducing The Harmful Effects Of This Disease
Now that we know what myocarditis is and some of its effects, we now need to understand how it can be best managed:
Early Diagnosis
Myocarditis is a progressive disease and must be diagnosed and managed in its initial stage. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), ECG and a chest x-ray are some useful methods for diagnosing myocarditis. In some cases, heart biopsy too may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment depends on the severity of the inflammation and is symptomatic. Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help with the infection and swelling, Adequate rest and a low-salt diet has shown to be effective in the acute phase of the disease. If the inflammation is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be helpful. In some severe cases, if a person does not respond to conventional therapy, heart transplant may be the last option.
Prevention
Unfortunately, there is nothing much one can do to prevent myocarditis till date, but proper hygiene and avoiding bacterial and viral infections may help to avoid developing this disease. Further, it is always better if the disease is diagnosed in its earlier stage and to consult a doctor, if any abnormal heart complications are experienced.