3. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Upper respiratory tract infections can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria brought about by myocarditis.
Viruses, such as coxsackie B viruses, gain entry to their human hosts via the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Once inside the body, these viruses target the heart as a secondary target.
2. Fainting
Fainting in myocarditis is caused by weakened heart muscle that is unable to properly pump blood to the brain. Insufficient blood flow to the brain causes the patient to faint or pass out.
The irregular heart rhythms can also cause fainting. In severe cases, the heart can stop beating, causing sudden death.
1. Infection
Infection in myocarditis is often brought about by viruses. The common viruses that cause infection in myocarditis include adenovirus, coxsackievirus, and Epstein-Barr virus.
Aside from viruses, bacteria can also cause an infection that leads to myocarditis. Examples of such bacteria are streptococcus and staphylococcus. Bacteria causing diphtheria and Lyme disease can also lead to infection associated with myocarditis.
Treatments And Care
Treatment for myocarditis is varied, depending on the severity of the symptoms. In severe cases, medications may be needed to improve the heart’s function and manage the condition.
In mild cases, the patient can rest and take medications such as corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory drugs. Medications for the heart and chronic conditions can also be used for treatment. The best way to know which treatment is suitable is to get with a doctor.
In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Some people may also be given ventricular assist devices (VAD) to pump blood. These devices can help the heart pump blood more efficiently and can be used while the heart recovers from myocarditis.
If not treated properly, this condition can lead to heart failure or even sudden death. Treatment for myocarditis must start with early diagnosis and management.
Early diagnosis can prevent long-term heart damage. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider will listen to the heart with a stethoscope and perform a series of blood tests.
Imaging tests are also important for confirming the diagnosis and severity of myocarditis. Blood tests will reveal any signs of heart attack, inflammation, and heart muscle damage.
In addition, antibody blood tests can determine if there’s an infection that may be linked to myocarditis.
The treatment for myocarditis depends on the severity of the disease and the patient’s symptoms.
Below are myocarditis treatments you should know about.
11. Limit Sodium Intake
Sodium, a common mineral found in food, should be limited for people with heart disease, including myocarditis. Excessive sodium in the bloodstream makes the heart have to work harder, causing higher blood pressure.
The most effective way to reduce sodium intake is by eating fewer processed foods. These include fast food, frozen meals, meats, cheeses, condiments, and packaged baked goods.
10. Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can damage the heart and circulatory system, both of which are critical for the body’s overall health. Among these are the heart muscle, which works in conjunction with veins, arteries, capillaries, and heart valves to pump blood throughout the body and deliver blood to organs.
As such, keeping the heart healthy is essential for long life. However, alcohol has numerous effects on the heart and circulatory system, including high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and the development of other heart conditions. It’s best to avoid alcohol on the onset of myocarditis.
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