1. Know the Symptoms of Myocarditis
Myocarditis is an infection of the heart muscle and can be caused by a number of viral and parasitic infections such as polio, rubella and certain strains of influenza. The symptoms of myocardia can resemble a normal case of the flu in its early stages, however, which may prolong a trip to the doctor.
Myocardia is marked by fever, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, diarrhea and occasional rashes. Myocardia differs from influenza in two important ways. First, the infection can cause the body to retain water, which can lead to a swelling of your legs (edema). Secondly, chest pains accompany the other symptoms, and you may feel like you are having a mild heart attack. These two symptoms should prompt you to see your doctor immediately.
2. Get the Appropriate Tests to Diagnose Myocarditis
Your doctor will perform a series of tests to properly diagnose myocarditis. First, your doctor will probably order a chest x-ray and an electrocardiogram (ECG), which may identify the swelling around your heart. An ultrasound of the heart, known as an echocardiogram, may be taken as well. Blood will be taken to measure your red and white cell count, and additional blood cultures may be taken to identify the specific type of bacteria that is causing the infection. In severe cases of myocarditis, a biopsy of the heart muscle may be taken.
3. Receive the Proper Treatment for Myocarditis
Once a proper diagnosis of myocarditis has been determined, your treatment can begin. If the infection has not spread too far, myocarditis can usually be treated with antibiotics. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to reduce the edema and to relieve pressure to the pericardium, which is the fluid sac that surrounds the heart. Diuretics may be given to remove excess water from the body.
After you have been treated for myocardia and the infection has disappeared, your doctor may recommend a low-salt diet in order to prevent your body from retaining too much water. You may be asked to reduce physical activity for a time until your heart muscle has healed completely.
