Inflammatory heart disease---more commonly referred to as myocarditis---is an inflammatory condition that affects the heart. The cause of this uncommon condition is typically due to a bacterial, fungal or viral infection within the heart muscle. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the symptoms associated with inflammatory heart disease can typically be resolved through the use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications or diuretics.
Constitutional Symptoms
Individuals with this disease frequently develop fever, a common immune response to prevent bacteria from multiplying. The University of Maryland Medical Center also notes that joint pain or swelling, particularly in the legs, may occur in certain individuals with inflammatory heart disease. This condition may also cause severe fatigue or shortness of breath in some people. Common flu-like symptoms, including headache, muscle aches or sore throat, may also develop. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important that you seek medical care as soon as possible.
Cardiac Symptoms
According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, individuals with inflammatory heart disease may experience cardiac abnormalities, including rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or heart murmurs. Certain people may also experience sharp or severe chest pain. Many of the cardiac symptoms associated with inflammatory heart disease are similar to those experienced prior to a heart attack. If you experience any of these cardiac symptoms, it is imperative that you seek medical care immediately to prevent permanent damage to your heart.
Additional Symptoms
Additional symptoms include fainting or decreased urine production. These symptoms typically occur in conjunction with the constitutional or cardiac symptoms related to the disease. According to Seattle Children's Hospital, infants and young children with inflammatory heart disease may exhibit additional symptoms, including vomiting or cyanosis (the skin becomes a bluish color due to decreased oxygen levels in the blood). Infants and young children may also exhibit increased levels of sweat production or may have difficulty breathing normally, which may cause irritability or restlessness. If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, speak with a medical professional as soon as possible---especially if additional constitutional or cardiac symptoms are present.
