SYMPTOMS OF MYOCARDITIS

Some people experience some or most of these symptoms and it is not unusual for symptoms to occur as long as two weeks after being unwell with a viral infection. There are a number of symptoms, but the most common symptoms are:

  • Chest pain/ discomfort or a feeling of tightness in the chest
  • Shortness of breath, often even when at rest, but also when active or in certain positions like lying down
  • Unusually tired, feeling lethargic or still tired even after resting
  • Palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing, pounding or fluttering)
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Lightheaded or feeling faint
  • Recent Flu-like symptoms like high fever, joint pains, headaches, body aches or sore throat
  • Swelling in the hands, feet or ankles although this is quite rare

It is important to note that not everyone experiences symptoms. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of myocarditis contact your doctor immediately or call NHS 111. Getting diagnosed and treated early will not only get you feeling better but lower your risk of long-term complications from myocarditis.

Heart Hive

EXPERIENCING CHEST PAIN

Many patients experience chest pain with Myocarditis. It is common to experience sensations like squeezing or tightness, when at rest or when active. Often, these chest pains occur when lying down and it can feel sharp or like a stabbing pain. The chest pain/discomfort can also spread to other parts of your body.

Since myocarditis also affects the lining of the heart (pericardium) your chest pain may feel better when you sit up and lean forward and worse when you lie back. Inflammation can also cause a fluttering sensation in your chest and where you experience a lot of extra heartbeats together, it is common to feel light-headed.

When to call 999

Myocarditis symptoms are often similar to heart attack symptoms. If you are experiencing unexplained chest pain and shortness of breath, seek emergency medical help.

Dial 999 immediately, if:

Occasionally, myocarditis symptoms can mimic heart attack symptoms. If you have any unexplained chest pain and/or shortness of breath, seek urgent medical care.

You should dial 999 if:
  • Your chest pain makes your chest feel tight or heavy
  • Any chest pain lasting more than 15 minutes
  • Chest pain spreads to your arms, neck, back and jaw
  • You feel short of breath and /or sick

CAUSES OF MYOCARDITIS

Myocarditis is most commonly caused by a viral infection. When myocarditis is caused by a virus, symptoms can start to show a week or two later. This is as a result of your immune system, the body’s own natural defence system, overreacting to the virus. This causes inflammation and can stay in the heart even after the initial virus is gone.

There are other causes for myocarditis which can include:

  • Autoimmune diseases eg, rheumatoid arthritis
  • Bacterial infections like sore throats or chest infections
  • Fungal infections eg: athletes’ foot
  • A reaction to certain medicines or vaccines
  • A reaction to drugs such as cocaine or to harmful substances (toxins) like carbon monoxide

Sometimes, however, it is not possible to determine the cause of myocarditis which can be upsetting and frustrating for patients but knowing the cause does not impact the treatment plan that will be given by your healthcare professional.

Myocarditis can affect anyone but it is more common in males than females and in people under 50.

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