Is Rheumatic Heart Disease Considered a Serious Condition?

Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic heart disease, also known in full as rheumatic heart disease, whether it is considered a serious illness depends on a comprehensive assessment of the extent of the lesion and clinical symptoms. Rheumatic heart disease is associated with the post-infectious immune response to rheumatic fever, and the younger the individual, the higher the likelihood of cardiac involvement. The primary involvement is in the valves, with acute-phase valve damage predominantly manifested as edema, which can gradually resolve. Repeated episodes of rheumatic fever can lead to permanent valve lesions, resulting in rheumatic heart disease. Mild valve involvement generally does not pose a significant severity, with patients often asymptomatic. However, severe valve stenosis or insufficiency can affect cardiac function and even lead to embolism events. For instance, severe mitral stenosis can manifest as dyspnea, hemoptysis, and is often accompanied by atrial fibrillation in most patients. If a thrombus detaches, it may cause cerebral embolism, presenting as hemiplegia, coma, and other symptoms, indicating a more severe form of rheumatic heart disease.

Regardless of the type of rheumatic heart disease, prompt medical attention is crucial, and standardized treatment under medical guidance should be pursued. Current medical practice has extensive experience in treating this type of heart disease, and valve plasty, replacement, and other surgical interventions may be necessary when indicated.