Rheumatic Heart Disease: A Brief Introduction to the Disorder
Rheumatic Heart disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the valves of the heart. Scientists are still working on developing clinical guidelines for rheumatic heart disease. WHO is developing a Work Plan for the implementation of interventions for preventing rheumatic heart disease. They are also planning to take care of those who are already living with it.
What you will learn in this article
- What is Rheumatic Heart disease and how does it happen?
- RHD: Symptoms, preventions, and treatment.
- The Worst Foods for Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- Diet for rheumatoid arthritis.
What is Rheumatic Heart disease and how does it happen?
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a condition where the valves of the heart become damaged due to inflammation. This can lead to blood clots that travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. These clots can block arteries and cause damage to organs. This condition can cause damage to the heart muscle and lead to congestive heart failure. In some cases, this may result in death. There are two types of rheumatic fever: acute rheumatic fever and subacute rheumatic fever. Both types occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream through cuts or abrasions in the mouth or throat. If not treated properly, these infections can spread throughout the body and affect other organs.
Causes of RHD:
Rheumatic fever (RF) is caused by infection from group A streptococci bacteria. These bacteria are usually spread through close contact with infected individuals. This can occur through skin-to-skin contact, sharing food utensils, or even kissing. However, rheumatic fever can also be transmitted through indirect contact with contaminated objects that have been touched by an infected person.
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) occurs when the inflammation from RF damages the valves of the heart. When this happens, blood flow into the chambers of the heart becomes restricted. As a result, fluid accumulates in these areas, causing swelling. If left untreated, this condition may lead to permanent damage to the heart muscle.
Rheumatic inflammation, over time, causes an increased risk for atherosclerosis, which increases long-term risks for heart attacks and strokes. People with rheumatic diseases sometimes have lower levels of antioxidants. Other factors that contribute to the development of RHD include genetic predisposition, age, gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
Symptoms of RHD
The symptoms of RHD are similar to those of many other conditions. They include fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling of the legs. It also includes weakness and uncontrolled movement of arms, legs, or facial muscles. However, if left untreated, these symptoms may progress to heart failure.
Prevention of RHD:
In order to prevent this from happening, people need to have regular screening for RHD. If they have any risk factors, they should seek medical attention immediately. Studies have shown that a Mediterranean-style diet, which includes lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, is a good option for those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Oats, whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains can reduce levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and lower the risk of heart disease.
People with heart disease, or those who are at risk for developing it, should boost their intake of omega-3s by eating fish; this is because it reduces the risk of irregular heartbeats and slows plaque buildup in the arteries. It is important to decrease omega-6s, as they can trigger inflammation, food like meat, some oils, and fried foods contain omega-6s.
One especially intriguing way that diet might influence rheumatic diseases could be via effects on the microbiome. First, dietary factors can modify immune and inflammatory responses, thus impacting rheumatic disease presentation. Rheumatic diseases may include body-wide autoimmune and inflammatory conditions and arthritis.
Treatment for RHD:
There is no cure for rheumatic heart disease, but there are treatments available. The damage to the heart valves is permanent, but patients with severe rheumatic heart disease may require surgery to replace or repair the damaged valves. Depending on the severity of the disease, patients may also need medication to treat symptoms of heart failure or heart rhythm abnormalities. Medications that thin the blood to reduce the risk of blood clots may also be needed.
5 Foods for Rheumatic Heart Disease:
We present you here with 5 foods that will support you to maintain a healthier heart. Reading nutrition labels and meal planning can go a long way toward setting yourself on the best course for a healthier life. One way to start is by creating a daily eating plan that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Make sure it also limits high-fat foods (such as red meat, cheese, and baked goods) and high-sodium foods (such as canned or processed foods).
1. Fatty fish: is good for you because they have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids. These acids help to control inflammation in your body. Too many omega-6 fatty acids can cause inflammation. You can get omega-3 fatty acids from eating fatty fish, like salmon, tuna, sardines, and herring.
2. Fruits and vegetables: contain substances that can help protect your cells from damage. They also provide the vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy. To get the most benefit, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.
3. Nuts: are a type of food that is full of healthy fats. They are good for your heart and contain important nutrients. Some examples of nuts are pine nuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, and almonds. Walnuts are especially good for people with a type of arthritis called RA because they contain a lot of a type of fat called omega-3.
4. Whole grains: are a type of food that can help reduce the risk of heart disease. They are higher in nutrients and fiber than refined grains. To choose products that are healthy, look for bread, cereals, and other products that specify a whole grain as a primary ingredient.
5. Peas and beans: are good for you because they contain protein, which is important for muscle health. They also contain antioxidants and some are rich in folic acid, magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium, all of which are good for your heart and immune system.
While there is no specific study of dietary therapies for rheumatoid arthritis, researchers have identified some foods that are pro-inflammatory. Another reason for restricting alcohol from your rheumatoid arthritis diet is because of the powerful medications that many people take to manage symptoms. Diet does not cure rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but making good food choices can help, control the inflammation that is so devastating to your body, provide nutrients that your body needs, and help you keep a healthy weight.
