What complication can arise from Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop after a streptococcal throat infection. One of its most serious complications is inflammation of the heart, known as rheumatic heart disease. This inflammation can affect the heart valves, leading to long-term damage and potentially resulting in heart failure or other heart-related issues later in life. The body's immune response to the streptococcus bacteria mistakenly attacks the heart tissue, causing this inflammation.

While permanent damage to joints can occur and weakness in hip muscles may be a concern due to inactivity or other factors, the hallmark and most critical complication associated with rheumatic fever is its effect on the heart, as it poses significant immediate and long-term health risks. Thus, understanding the potential for heart inflammation emphasizes the importance of early identification and treatment of streptococcal infections to prevent rheumatic fever and its associated complications.