• Instant quote
• Privacy

• about us
• contact

• Travel advice
• Health advice
• Illness
• Country guide
• Visas
• Gap years
• Legal issues
• Embassies

Myocarditis

Myocarditis is a disorder caused by inflammation of the middle layer of heart muscle. Viral infections such as coxsackie virus, adenovirus, and echovirus are the most common cause. Myocarditis may also occur during or after various viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. It may also be caused by radiation, exposure to chemicals or medication, or connective tissue diseases. The middle layer of heart muscle becomes inflamed and irritated, causing symptoms similar to a heart attack or even heart failure. It is a fairly uncommon disorder.

Manifestation: Total absence of symptoms is common, but symptoms may include:
• Fever
• Vague chest pain
• Severe chest pain as in a heart attack
• Joint pain
• Palpitations,
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue, often from the viral infection
• Signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure
• Sudden death (rare)

Diagnosis and treatment: Tests used in the diagnosis of myocarditis include:
• ECG showing abnormalities
• Echocardiogram to observe heart function and rule out clots
• Biopsy of the heart muscle this test can confirm the diagnosis
• Cultures (may be performed if infection is suspected as a cause of the disorder)
• Specific therapy is not available may include analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications (often including steroids) may be used to reduce symptoms. There may be a need to treat arrhythmias with antiarrhythmic medications. Activity may be restricted to bed rest to reduce cardiac workload, and the diet may be salt/sodium restricted.