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What Is Myocarditis?

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. This condition affects the heart's ability to pump blood normally. When this happens, the patient feels weak and short of breath. Myocarditis can happen to a person of any age. The most common cause is a viral infection. Less common causes are:

  • radiation
  • drugs
  • exposure to chemicals

Myocarditis may occur as a side effect of cancer treatment with radiation and certain drugs. Although rare, myocarditis can also be caused by the germ that causes Lyme disease. In some parts of the world, a parasite often causes it.

Many cases of myocarditis caused by viruses get better without treatment. However, the disease can get worse. If it does, a person may develop congestive heart failure or heart rhythm problems. When this happens, heart medications are given. In very rare cases, it may continue to worsen, and a heart transplant may be necessary.

A health care provider may suspect myocarditis when a person's chest X-ray shows an enlarged heart. Sometimes abnormal heart sounds are heard as well. It may be necessary to take a sample of the heart muscle. This is called a heart biopsy. A person with myocarditis should carefully follow the treatment plan of the health care provider, which will also include rest and taking all medications as directed.

For more information, speak with your health care provider. If your health care provider would like to refer you to a cardiologist, ask for a referral to a Saint Vincent Heart Center cardiac specialist. Information is also available by contacting your local chapter of the American Heart Association or call the national office at (800) 242-8721 or visit their website at www.americanheart.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. HIL File CARD4291.RF2 VRS# 6101 Data Version 7.0
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