Stroke Resulting From Rheumatic Heart Disease

Rheumatic heart disease is a condition caused by rheumatic fever that usually affects children between the ages of 4 and 18. The effects of RHD last a lifetime and can result in a stroke.

Features

RHD damages the heart by causing inflammation. Signs of cardiac problems include chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath and an irregular pulse, per the HealthCentral Network.

Effects

Inflamed heart valves and vessels can lead to stroke because blood cannot flow properly from the heart to the brain to deliver oxygen and other nutrients.

Considerations

According to the American Stroke Association, a blood clot in the heart due to RHD may not only interfere with blood flow to the brain, but may also dislodge and travel to the brain.

Prevention

ASA indicates a doctor will often prescribe anticoagulants or antiplatelets to prevent blood clots from forming. These include aspirin and warfarin.

Solution

Surgical options for RHD include heart valve replacement or opening a very narrow valve to prevent stroke. A balloon valvuloplasty is a non-surgical option which involves snaking a balloon-tipped catheter into the heart and inflating the balloon to open the valve.

References

• The HealthCentral Network: Rheumatic Heart Disease
• American Stroke Association: Types of Stroke
• American Stroke Association: Acute and Preventive Stroke Treatments