Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)

Written By Randy Wu

What is Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)?

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a type of cardiovascular disease caused by damage to the heart valves because of untreated strep throat or rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever causes the body to attack its own tissue, which can permanently scar the heart valves. This makes it harder for blood to properly flow through the heart, leading to heart failure, stroke, or severe heart valve disease. 

Why is RHD Important?

RHD is a major cause of cardiovascular death in low and middle-income countries. According to the World Heart Organization, more than 40 million people worldwide are currently living with rheumatic heart disease. Children and young adults are most commonly affected. RHD is largely preventable with treatment of strep throat infections, which many underserved communities lack access to.

Symptoms of Rheumatic Heart Disease:

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Heart palpitations

  • Heart murmurs

  • Strokes

Treatments for RHD:

Medications: Diuretics, beta blockers, and blood thinners are commonly prescribed to help manage heart failure symptoms, arrhythmias, or blood clot risks

Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics are prescribed to treat strep throat infections and prevent recurrent rheumatic fever episodes, long-term treatments may be used to prevent additional heart valve damage

Valve Repairment or Replacement: severe cases of RHD may require surgery to repair or replace damaged heart valves to improve blood flow and heart function

Rheumatic heart disease is a serious but preventable cardiovascular disease caused by untreated strep throat infections and rheumatic fever. Antibiotic treatments and improved healthcare access can reduce the risk of RHD and long-term heart damage. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can greatly improve patient outcomes and prevent the progression of RHD.

Randy Wu
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