2023-12-28 07:58:35
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Anyone who experiences cardiac arrhythmias, weakness and shortness of breath after an infection that they thought had been overcome should go to the doctor immediately.
It starts with a harmless cold or a gastrointestinal infection: If the heart suddenly starts to stumble after a viral infection has subsided or even the slightest exertion causes shortness of breath and exhaustion, it could be due to a dangerous inflammation of the myocardium. The symptoms are often non-specific and difficult to recognize, but rapid treatment is important to avoid serious complications.
Heart palpitations and shortness of breath after a cold – when viruses attack the heart
If we become infected with viruses or other pathogens, they can reach the heart via the bloodstream. In most cases, the body’s own defenses ensure that the “invaders” do not reach the heart muscle. If they do manage to do so, they can attack the heart muscle cells and trigger inflammation (myocarditis).
In many cases, myocarditis heals on its own, like this German Heart Foundation refers. However, one in five people can suffer permanent damage to the heart muscle with long-term consequences, such as heart failure: The ongoing inflammation causes the heart muscle cells to be continually damaged and the heart muscle expands and its pumping ability decreases. Sometimes the pericardium is also affected.
Anyone who experiences heart palpitations after an infection they thought had been overcome should see a doctor (symbolic image). © Zoonar/Imago
According to the, common triggers for myocarditis are: Professional Association of German Internists (BDI):
- Coxsackie viruses
- Adenoviruses
- The influenza virus
- Measles and herpes viruses
- Bacteria (Borrelia and the pathogens of scarlet fever and diphtheria)
An infection with the corona virus can also result in inflammation of the heart muscle.
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If you have these symptoms, think of myocarditis
Recognizing myocarditis is not easy because the symptoms can be very different. Sometimes there are no symptoms or very general symptoms. Anyone who has just had an infection may initially associate the first signs with the illness they have overcome and not go straight to the doctor. Those affected often only notice the first symptoms of myocarditis weeks after the previous infection, informs German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK).
Caution is advised in any case if the fatigue and tiredness after a cold or a gastrointestinal infection lasts longer than usual or if other symptoms occur, such as:
- Cardiac arrhythmias (heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, rapid heartbeat)
- Chest tightness or chest pain
- Shortness of breath, shortness of breath
- Weakness, dizziness
- Fever
- Body aches and headaches
- Fluid retention (edema) in the arms, legs or lungs
Sometimes the symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack: there are stabbing pains in the chest, shortness of breath and a racing heart combined with pale, bluish skin and lips.
Why quick treatment is important
Anyone who suspects that they are suffering from myocarditis should see a doctor as soon as possible. Because myocarditis may need to be treated with medication. An electrocardiogram (ECG), ultrasound examinations and detection of potential triggers in the blood can provide clarity. Sometimes a heart MRI or chest X-ray is also done. If the suspicion is confirmed, depending on the severity of the inflammation and symptoms, medications are used to relieve the inflammation and stabilize the heart’s ability to pump. If the myocarditis has a bacterial cause, it can be said BDI taking antibiotics may be necessary.
The most important thing for myocarditis: rest
The most important treatment for myocarditis, in addition to medication, is to rest. Anyone affected should definitely take it easy and give the heart muscle time to regenerate – several months. Sports and other physical exertion are taboo during this time. Otherwise, secondary diseases such as heart failure or, in the worst case, even heart failure can occur. If you follow your doctor’s instructions, you have a good chance that the myocarditis will heal completely and without any consequences.
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
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