What is acute rheumatic fever?
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an illness that can be very severe. It can happen when a skin or throat infection caused by a germ called ‘Strep A’ isn’t treated. It is not common, but you are more likely to get it if you have had it before. It can happen to children, men and women at any age. It affects the heart, joints, skin and brain. Symptoms of acute rheumatic fever will start two-to-three weeks after a Strep A infection. These include:
- Fever and chills
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain and odd movements
- 胸痛
- Skin rash or sores
- Feeling tired
It can be treated with injections every four weeks. Your GPGeneral Practitioner will tell you more about this. If your ARF is not treated, it can damage your heart. Then, it becomes rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
What will my GP do now for my acute rheumatic fever?
Your GP will talk to you about your symptoms and health history. They will do tests to diagnose you. If you have ARF, you will be sent to hospital.
What will my GP do in the future for my acute rheumatic fever?
Your GP will see you each month to help treat your ARF. They may also refer you to a specialist called a cardiologist. They will manage your heart health after having ARF. If your child has ARF, your GP will want to see them every year for a check-up.
