Dr. M.J. Bazos,
Patient
Handout
MYOCARDITIS
About Your
Diagnosis
Myocarditis is inflammation
of the heart muscle. It is caused by an inflammatory response to an injury or
infection. It may be caused by radiation or side effects of some medications.
Most commonly it is caused by a virus, even the virus that causes the common
cold. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever or chills, inability to exercise,
or feeling fatigued and run down much of the time are some of the early symptoms
of myocarditis. The chest pain is from fluid collection in the lining of the
heart. Some patients have a rash or joint pain (arthritis) related to rheumatic
fever (from previous streptococcal infection) or other infection that can cause
the myocarditis. Abnormal rhythms in the electrical activity of the heart
(arrhythmias) may result from irritation of the heart muscle. This may cause a
rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
or lead to
heart failure (the heart does not pump blood efficiently). Myocarditis is
detected through findings at a physical examination or on an EKG. Laboratory
tests may be performed to help find the cause. Biopsy of the heart muscle
sometimes is needed to confirm the
diagnosis.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
Rarely are additional tests
needed. Symptoms generally clear up with rest and time. Avoid strenuous exercise
until the condition has completely cleared. Exercise increases the work of the
heart, and this may cause the inflammatory reaction to worsen rapidly and may
cause dangerous heart rhythm
disturbances.
Treatment
Management
of chest pain and arrhythmias is most important. If heart failure occurs,
treatment of this disorder is needed. Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) may be
used to manage the inflammation and ease the chest pain. In more severe
instances, steroid-containing medications or immunosuppressive drugs are used.
These medications can cause severe stomach and intestinal irritation and may
cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
These
drugs must be taken with food. They are to be avoided by patients with a history
of ulcers or reactions to these medicines. Aspirin is used to manage fevers and
joint pain. Antibiotics are given for acute rheumatic fever or other
infections.
The
DOs
•Take your medications as
prescribed to manage symptoms and
infections.
•Rest.
The
DON’Ts
•Avoid exercise
until your ECG is normal and you have clearance from your
doctor.
When to Call Your
Doctor
•If you cannot tolerate
your medicines or have a reaction to
them.
•If you have new or worsening
chest pain, shortness of breath, or
fainting
•If you notice blood in your
vomit or stools.