Rheumatic fever

Inflammatory disease in children

If your child is experiencing rheumatic fever our rheumatology and cardiology experts can help to treat you

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HCA UK Booking Line:

0207 079 4344

About rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory bacterial disease, mainly contracted by children between five and fourteen years old. It can develop from complications relating to untreated scarlet fever or strep throat. The heart, skin and joints can be affected. Your child's consultant can help control the condition with the different treatments we offer.

Need to know

  • What are the symptoms of rheumatic fever? icon plus

    Your child's consultant can diagnose rheumatic fever from the "Jones Criteria", a checklist of major and minor symptoms. If at least one major or two minor symptoms are identified a diagnosis of the condition might be made.

    Major symptoms

    - arthritis
    - carditis (heart inflammation).
    - skin rash
    - Sydenham's chorea (nerve inflammation)

    Minor symptoms

    - joint pain
    - high temperature
    - irregular heart rhythm
    - blood tests showing body inflammation

  • Diagnosing rheumatic fever icon plus

    Your child's consultant will discuss their symptoms with you. The following tests can be carried out to determine if they have rheumatic fever:

    • an electrocardiogram (ECG) uses sensors (electrodes) to assess heartbeat regularity
    • blood tests to identify inflammation or any antibodies associated with the condition
    • an echocardiogram to see if the heart muscle or valves are affected

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Your child's consultant will discuss treatment options with you. These may include:

    • anti-inflammatory medication to ease joint pain and/or heart inflammation
    • antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining streptococcus bacteria (throat infection)
    • bed rest

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Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

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020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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