What is myocarditis?
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. It might occur after an infection, such as COVID-19, strep throat, or tuberculosis. It may also happen with other damage to the heart from toxins, certain drugs, or an autoimmune disease. Rarely, it occurs in young adults and older teens after they get certain COVID-19 vaccines.
The inflammation is part of an immune system response. The body's natural defense system attacks the heart. This can cause serious heart problems, such as heart failure. With this problem, the heart can't pump blood as well as it should.
Myocarditis should be treated by a doctor as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of myocarditis?
You may be short of breath. You may also have chest pain, feel tired, or have palpitations. (This is the uncomfortable feeling that your heart is beating fast or not in the usual way).
Some of these symptoms are similar to symptoms of other heart problems, such as heart failure.
In some cases, there may not be any symptoms. Your doctor may find signs of myocarditis while doing other tests on your heart.
How is myocarditis diagnosed?
Your doctor will give you some tests if you have symptoms of myocarditis. You may get an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). You may also get other imaging tests like an echocardiogram or MRI. You may get lab tests. Blood tests might be done to check for heart muscle injury.
You may also need a biopsy in some cases. A biopsy (sample of heart tissue) can confirm if you have myocarditis. And it may help the doctor find the cause.
How is myocarditis treated?
Treatment for myocarditis includes finding and treating the cause. If you are having other serious heart problems, your doctor will treat those at the same time. You may need to take medicine for your heart.
If a bacterial infection is the cause, you may need to take antibiotics. Lifestyle changes, such as getting more rest, may be part of the treatment.
Many people recover completely from myocarditis. But some people may have long-term problems from it.
How can you care for your child who has myocarditis?
- Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
- Ask your child's doctor what level and type of activity is safe.
- Don't let your child play sports or do tiring exercise until the doctor says it's okay.
- Have your child rest when they feel tired.
- Ask the doctor when your child can go back to school or day care.
- Keep track of your child's weight each day, if your doctor asks you to.
- Give your child heart-healthy foods. This includes lots of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, nonfat and low-fat dairy products, and whole grains. For babies, make sure they are feeding well.
- Keep your child away from smoke. Do not smoke or let anyone else smoke around your child or in your home.
- Make sure your child gets all recommended vaccines. These help keep your child healthy.
Myocarditis in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
- Your child stops breathing or has severe trouble breathing. Signs may include:
- Turning blue.
- The belly moves in and out or the nostrils flare with every breath.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has new or changed symptoms of heart failure, such as:
- Trouble breathing.
- Swelling in the belly, legs, ankles, or feet.
- Sudden weight gain in 2 or 3 days. (Your doctor can tell you how much weight gain to watch for.)
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
- Your child has a fever.
- A baby or very young child has symptoms that may mean there is a problem. These include fast breathing, sweating while eating, not eating well, and not gaining enough weight.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child has less energy or is sleeping more than usual.
- Your child is not eating or drinking well.
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