What is Myocarditis?
Myocarditis is inflammation of heart muscle, known as myocardium. It is a rare disease which can reduce the heart’s ability to pump blood. About 1.5 million cases of myocarditis are estimated in the world each year, with 10 to 20 people affected out of every 100,000 people.
Causes of Myocarditis
A leading cause of myocarditis is viral infection, such as flu, SARS-CoV-2, Adeno virus, and other infectious viruses. It is also caused by a medicine reaction or a condition that causes inflammation throughout the body. Cancer and bacterial infection can also cause myocarditis.
Symptoms of Myocarditis
1. Chest Pain or Pressure
2. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
3. Persistent Fatigue and Weakness
4. Heart Palpitations
5. Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeat)
6. Edema (Swelling)
7. Lightheadedness and Fainting (Syncope)
8. Flu-like Symptoms
9. Abdominal Pain and Loss of Appetite
10. Skin Rash
Diagnosis of Myocarditis
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
Echo
Chest X-ray
Blood Tests
Treatment of Myocarditis
There is no known treatment for viral myocarditis. However, it is done by treating the symptoms caused from the effects of myocarditis. Other treatments can include:
Medicine for heart failure
Pain killers for chest pain
Corticosteroids
Antibiotics (if bacterial infection)
Intravenous (IV) immunoglobulin