Myocarditis refers to inflammation of the heart muscle which is also known as myocardium. The inflammation in the heart causes a decrease in blood flow. Inflammation of the myocardium can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).
Viruses can cause myocarditis if they infect the heart. An adverse drug reaction or an underlying inflammatory condition can result in myocarditis.
The rest of the body suffers as a result of the heart’s weakness as a result of severe myocarditis. Blood clots in the heart are the primary cause of strokes and heart attacks.
Myocarditis can be treated with medication, procedures, or even surgery.
Myocarditis may go unnoticed in some patients because of a lack of symptoms in the early stages. They aren’t always severe.
The most common signs of myocarditis is swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
- The sound of a heart beating (arrhythmias).
- Dizziness or lightheadedness can cause a person to feel dizzy or faint. Muscle aches and pains in the joints, as well as a headache, are typical flu-like symptoms.
- In some people, myocarditis symptoms can resemble those of a heart attack. If you’re experiencing shortness of breath or chest pain that doesn’t appear to be related to anything else, you should see a doctor immediately
Myocarditis in children
Chest pain, fainting, high fever, and rapid breathing are all possible symptoms in children with myocarditis (arrhythmias).
Viral infections frequently result in myocarditis as a side effect. However, even after the infection has been cleared, the heart continues to be stressed by the resulting inflammation. Cancer, bacterial infections, and other contagious diseases can also cause giant cell myocarditis, as can exposure to environmental toxins such as metal poisons and spider and snake venom. However, it is possible to treat this type of disease successfully if caught early enough. There is no known way to avoid contracting myocarditis at this time.
As a dynamic and growing program at the Doral Health and Wellness Cardiology Center, the division of Cardiovascular Medicine strives to maintain the highest standards of excellence for research, teaching, and clinical care. One example of how our clinical programs reflect the growing complexity and technology of cutting-edge medicine is a cardiovascular disease program that brings together cardiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers to better serve our patients. Call us today at 347-868-1012.
