Detailed Information on Myocarditis

Myocarditis is collection of diseases of infectious, toxic, and autoimmune etiologies characterized by inflammation of the heart. Myocarditis can be caused by a diversity of infections and conditions such as viruses, sarcoidosis, and immune diseases (systemic lupus, etc.), pregnancy, and others. The most familiar cause of myocarditis is infection of the heart muscle by a virus. The virus invades the heart muscle to cause local inflammation. After the initial infection subsides, the body's immune system continues to inflict inflammatory damage to the heart muscle. This inflammation can be caused by infectious agents, toxins, drugs or for unknown reasons.

It may be localized to one area of the heart, or it may affect the entire heart. Other causes of myocarditis may involve allergic reactions to certain medications, being around certain chemicals and certain diseases that cause inflammation throughout the body. It can occur in people of all ages and is diagnosed more often in men than in women. This uncommon condition can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, leg swelling, palpitations, chest pain and abnormal heart rhythms. Sudden death (in young adults, myocarditis causes up to 20% of all cases of sudden death).

Myocarditis is often associated with pericarditis, and many patients present with signs and symptoms that suggest concurrent myocarditis and pericarditis. Treatment of Myocarditis depends on the cause and severity. Painkillers will help to ease chest pain and fever. Digoxin (Digitek, Lanoxin), which increases the strength of your heart muscle contractions and tends to slow the heartbeat. Beta-blockers should be avoided in the acutely decompensating phase of illness. Low-sodium diet similar to that of heart failure management. Bedrest and avoidance of athletic activities are recommended from anecdotal experiences (with lower incidence of arrhythmia).

In several cases, diuretics, digitalis, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, or vasodilators may be prescribed to help the heart pump while it heals. There's no easy prevention for most cases of myocarditis. Regular hand washing is a good way to help prevent spreading illness. To minimize your likelihood of contracting an HIV-related myocardial infection, practice safe sex and refrain from intravenous drug use. If you spend time in tick-infested areas, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to cover as much of your skin as possible.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for beauty tips. She also writes articles for new hairstyles.