For some people, a bout of rheumatic fever can cause damage to the heart valve. While this damage is permanent, there are steps you can take to mitigate the risk of future complications and lead a full, healthy life.
While bacterial infections like strep throat might not pose much risk to healthy individuals, they can lead to serious complications in people with rheumatic heart disease. As a result, you must make a concerted effort to avoid these and other infections.
If a person is ill, do your best to avoid contact with them. Remember that bacterial infections can spread easily, either by inhaling infected droplets or handling contaminated objects. Handwashing can also reduce your risk of infection when you use the correct practices:
While hand sanitizer is also effective, soap and water are the best methods to eliminate bacteria and other germs.
Smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Smoking cigarettes also increases a person’s chance of contracting a bacterial infection, which can be serious for people with rheumatic heart disease.
In this case, you should quit smoking as soon as possible if you have rheumatic heart disease. Because quitting is often challenging, talk to your doctor about possible cessation methods. Many people experience success when using things like nicotine lozenges or patches, as they can help you gradually reduce your intake of nicotine until you no longer experience cravings.
Maintaining a heart healthy diet is key for managing the effects of rheumatic heart disease. Foods containing important vitamins and nutrients can boost heart function and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular issues. Accordingly, heart healthy diets must include:
In the same token, you should avoid foods known to negatively impact a person’s heart health. This includes foods with excess fat (like certain types of meat and dairy), processed foods, foods high in sodium, and foods with lots of added sugar.
Doctors may also prescribe antibiotics to manage rheumatic heart disease, and it’s important to take all medications as instructed. If you have any questions about your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.