Preventing rheumatic heart disease

Rheumatic heart disease is a complication of rheumatic fever. So the best way of preventing rheumatic heart disease is by preventing episodes of rheumatic fever.

If you have or suspect you have rheumatic fever see your doctor or local health clinic.  If you have had rheumatic fever make sure you always have your regular penicillin injections.

Also

• Get regular check-ups at your local health clinic
• Do not ignore a sore throat. Consult your doctor. Proper treatment of sore throat can go a long way in preventing the first attack of  rheumatic fever
• Keep sores clean and covered
• Wash hands regularly
• Watch out for symptoms in children – people aged between 5 and 14 are most likely to get  rheumatic fever
• Because  rheumatic fever can affect the heart it is important not to add further stress to the heart either by smoking of by being overweight
• Eat a healthy diet