Infographic on Rheumatic Heart Disease(RHD)

Posted on March 27, 2023

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is an inflammatory condition caused by an infection with Streptococcus bacteria. It can affect any part of the heart, but most commonly affects the valves that regulate blood flow in and out of the heart. RHD is a serious health issue and can lead to significant heart damage if left untreated. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of long-term complications. An infographic highlighting the causes, symptoms, and treatments for RHD can be found here. This infographic provides a clear overview of this condition and is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about RHD and how they can protect themselves.

Rheumatic heart disease is a primary cause of heart-related mortality worldwide. It is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and possible treatments for this condition to prevent it from developing into a grave issue. This infographic offers an in-depth look at the facts and figures related to rheumatic heart disease.

1. More than 39 million people are living with RHD
2. 291,000 people are killed by RHD every year
3. 95% of cases occur in low and middle-income countries
4. Most people who die of RHD are under the age of 40
5. RHD is the most common heart disease in persons aged 25 and younger

Rheumatic Heart Disease: RHD is a life-threatening condition that results from damage to the heart valves caused by one or several episodes of rheumatic fever

Rheumatic Fever: Caused by an abnormal response of the body to infection with streptococcal bacteria

From Sore Throat To Heart Failure

Stage 1: Streptococcus bacteria infection
Stage 2: Strep throat
Stage 3: Rheumatic fever
Stage 4: Rheumatic heart disease
Stage 5: Atrial fibrillation heart failure death

Who is at Risk?

1. Children aged 5 to 15 years old
2. Children who suffer repeated strep throat infections
3. People living in particular indigenous communities
4. People who immigrated from countries where rheumatic fever is more common

Symptoms

Rheumatic Fever

1. Fever
2. Fatigue
3. Small bumps beneath the skin
4. Swollen, tender, and painful joints
5. Pain that migrates across the joints
6. Shortness of breath and chest discomforts
7. Flat or slightly raised rash, usually on the chest
8. Uncontrolled movements of arms, legs and facial muscles

Rheumatic Heart Disease

1. Heart murmurs
2. Chest pain
3. Breathlessness with physical activities
4. Weakness and tiredness
5. Swelling of legs and face

Prevention Measures

1. Prevent strep throat infection
2. Treat infections with antibiotics to prevent rheumatic fever
3. Prevent additional streptococcal infection
4. Long-term antibiotics can reduce progression to more severe diseases

Tags: healthy heart, heart disease