Myocarditis

Myocarditis: Inflammation of the Heart Muscle

Myocarditis refers to an inflammation of the heart muscle. It can be either acute or chronic.

Causes of Myocarditis:

Myocarditis is primarily caused by viruses, and less frequently by bacteria, parasites, toxic substances, or medications. However, inflammation of the heart muscle can also occur as a side effect of other diseases. If, in addition to the heart muscle, the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) is also inflamed, it is referred to as perimyocarditis.

Symptoms of Myocarditis:

Unfortunately, there are no typical symptoms (signs) of myocarditis that are specific to this disease alone, which makes a clear and rapid diagnosis difficult. A suspicion is based on rather non-specific complaints, especially when they are associated with flu-like infections or other febrile infectious diseases.

If heart rhythm disturbances, shortness of breath, or chest pain occur in addition to a viral infection, myocarditis could be involved. In case of such complaints, please inform your doctor immediately so that the correct treatment can be started without delay.

Recovery Prospects of Myocarditis:

Basically, the earlier the diagnosis is made and the inflammation can be treated, the better the chances of complete recovery. Otherwise, about half of the patients recover completely from the disease. The remaining affected individuals retain more or less pronounced signs of heart dysfunction. A small portion has to expect a significant deterioration in their condition. In some cases, a heart transplant may even be necessary.

Prevention of Myocarditis:

It is extremely important that you do not unnecessarily strain your body during an infection or other viral or bacterial illness. Especially NO sports until the infection is completely recovered. And even then, it is important to slowly reintroduce the body to its former performance and gradually build up training.