Rheumatism
Rheumatism is an inflammatory disease that may be caused by improper treatment of a strep throat infection or a cough. Streptococcal inflammation of the throat and strep throat are caused by group A streptococcus bacteria
Rheumatism is common in children aged 5-15 years, although the disease occurs in young children and adults Although strep throat is common, rheumatism is rare in developed countries However, the situation in developing countries is still a problem
Rheumatism can cause permanent damage to the heart, including valve damage and heart failure. Treatment may reduce tissue damage caused by inflammation, relieve pain and other symptoms, and prevent recurrence of rheumatism.
Rheumatism develops after a throat infection by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus A throat infection caused by group A streptococcus causes strep throat or, rarely, strep throat. Infection of the skin or other parts of the body by these bacteria rarely causes rheumatism
The exact link between strep infection and rheumatism has not yet been found, although it is believed that the bacteria "tricks" the immune system. Streptococcus bacteria contain proteins that are found in some tissues of the human body Therefore, instead of just dealing with bacteria, the immune system attacks its own tissues, especially those of the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system. This reaction of the immune system causes inflammation
Complete treatment received in time to eliminate strep bacteria leaves a very low risk of developing rheumatism. In case of several episodes of streptococcal inflammation of the throat or an attack of thrush, the child is likely to develop rheumatism in the case of insufficient treatment.
Symptoms of rheumatism are different Some people have a few symptoms, while others have fewer Symptoms may change during the course of the disease Post-streptococcal rheumatism usually begins within 2-4 weeks
Rheumatism Symptoms that may be caused by inflammation of the heart, joints, skin or central nervous system:
- Fever
- Painful joints, especially in the ankles, knees, elbows and wrists; Proper treatment of strep can prevent rheumatism See your doctor if you have the following symptoms:
- Sore throat without cold symptoms
- Sore throat accompanied by painful and swollen lymph nodes
- Red rash that first appears on the head and neck and then spreads to the body and limbs
- Anything The condition is called strawberry tongue
Consult a doctor about fever in the following situations:
- Newborns under 3 months who have a temperature of 38 C when measured on the back of the body
- 3-6 month old children 38 9 C or higher
- Children aged 6 months to 2 years whose fever is refractory to treatment for more than one day 38 At a temperature of 9 C or more
- Children aged 2-17 years, whose fever (38 9 С or more) does not respond to medical treatment for three or more days.
