Question

How do you treat rheumatic fever?

Answer 1

Treating rheumatic fever involves antibiotic treatment to prevent recurring infections, taking anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation, managing symptoms with rest and physical activity modification, long-term antibiotic treatment to prevent recurrence, and potentially undergoing surgical intervention in case of heart valve damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Treating rheumatic fever involves several strategies:

1. Antibiotic treatment: The American Heart Association recommends benzathine benzylpenicillin every 3 or 4 weeks to prevent recurring infections.
2. Anti-inflammatory medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms like joint pain and swelling.
3. Symptom management: Rest and physical activity modification may be necessary to reduce strain on the heart and joints.
4. Secondary prophylaxis: Long-term antibiotic treatment may be required to prevent recurrent episodes of rheumatic fever.
5. Treatment of complications: If heart valve damage occurs, surgical intervention like valve repair or replacement may be necessary.