Rheumatic fever treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Rheumatic fever treatment
Recommended health tests for Rheumatic fever
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Rheumatic fever
Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever. Caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, it can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain. Rheumatic fever is rare in countries with widespread use of antibiotics for strep throat. However, it remains a serious health concern in areas with limited access to medical care, affecting about 470,000 people each year worldwide.
Causes
The exact cause of rheumatic fever is the body's immune response to the Streptococcus pyogenes infection. Instead of fighting off the bacteria exclusively, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissue, primarily the heart, joints, skin, and nervous system. Genetic predisposition and certain environmental factors may increase the risk of developing rheumatic fever following a strep throat or scarlet fever infection.
Signs and symptoms
- Fever - Painful and tender joints (arthritis), usually in the knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists - Chest pain - Heart palpitations - Fatigue - Skin rash - Small, painless nodules beneath the skin - Jerky, uncontrolled movements of the arms and face (Sydenham chorea)
Diagnosing Rheumatic fever
Diagnosing rheumatic fever involves a thorough examination and a series of tests since there's no single test that can confirm the disease. Healthcare providers will typically review the patient's medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order blood tests to detect signs of inflammation or evidence of a recent streptococcal infection. Other tests might include an electrocardiogram (EKG), which checks for heart problems, and an echocardiogram to examine heart function.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention of rheumatic fever primarily involves treating strep throat with antibiotics to prevent the disease from developing. It's crucial for individuals to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Treatment for rheumatic fever focuses on eliminating the remaining strep bacteria, relieving symptoms, controlling inflammation, and preventing recurrence. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection, and anti-inflammatory treatments, such as aspirin or corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation, fever, and pain. In severe cases, especially those involving heart complications, further interventions may be required. In the realm of functional medicine, the approach towards treating and preventing rheumatic fever encompasses a broader perspective. It includes dietary changes, focusing on anti-inflammatory foods and eliminating pro-inflammatory foods to support the immune system. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and vitamin E may also help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Herbal treatments, like ginger and turmeric, have been known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can be incorporated into daily nutrition. Lifestyle changes are strongly emphasized in functional medicine. Regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep are key components that can aid in recovery and overall well-being. A holistic approach, aiming to address the root causes of rheumatic fever and support the body's natural healing processes, is fundamental in functional medicine and can complement traditional medical treatments. However, it's imperative for individuals seeking natural treatments to consult with healthcare professionals to tailor a comprehensive and safe approach. Collaboration between traditional and functional medicine practitioners can offer a balanced and effective strategy for managing and preventing rheumatic fever.
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